Futures Literacy, or in German "Zukunftskompetenz" (future competence), describes the ability to imagine possible futures and accordingly consider how these preferred futures can be shaped for everyone. Because only those who actively engage with the future also think about the consequences of their own actions in the present. We have defined eight criteria that are relevant for a well-developed future competence. Ask yourself how strongly these items are developed in your own case:
- Expand knowledge: Actively search for information about current and potentially future developments.
- Cultivate critical thinking: Expand the ability to examine knowledge and information and to question what is given.
- Promote creative thinking: Strengthen the ability to think creatively.
- Accept uncertainty: Accept uncertainty and complexity.
- Explore future scenarios: Actively explore possible futures using foresight methods.
- Reflect and improve (oneself): Constantly update and reflect on views and perspectives.
- Participate actively: Act proactively and engage to shape and influence possible futures.
- Promote collaboration: Understand the future through the collaboration of different individual strengths and perspectives.
(Source: Remdisch, S., & Petzel, T. (2023). Shaping leadership success in the future: how futures literacy and performance leadership interact. In: Odgers Berndtson (Ed.), Manager Barometer 2023–2024, pp. 39–48 (Frankfurt).)