From Unthinkable to Imaginable: Crafting a Positive Future Together

In recent years, two words have surged in our collective consciousness: Unthinkable and Unimaginable.

These terms, often ringing through headlines and debates, encapsulate the whirlwind of change in our world. From escalating climate crises to breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, they reflect both the awe of what’s possible and the fear of what’s ahead.

 

But these words are more than just descriptors of challenges—they are invitations. They urge us to look beyond today’s uncertainties, to stretch our imagination, and to envision what could be, not just what is.

If we can imagine the unimaginable—envision a positive future—we take the first step toward creating it.

The Mind as a Tool for Change 

The act of imagining isn’t just wishful thinking; it’s a profound, actionable tool. As researcher and futurist Jane McGonigal from Institute for the Future explains in her inspiring talk, “How to Craft a Resilient Future”, our ability to visualize a future shapes how we navigate it. By imagining a positive future in detail, we attune our minds to seek out signs of that future—and to take actions that make it real.

 

Her insights remind us that the seeds of a better tomorrow are already being planted. Look closely, and you’ll find signals of change in motion:

• Education leads the way: Every student in San Diego will now complete a course in climate science, embedding sustainability into the next generation’s DNA.
  Learn more.
• Business transitions for sustainability: At COP29, a global network launched to support private-sector transition planning for a greener economy.
  Discover the initiative.
• AI mentors for African learners: In West Africa, students now benefit from AI mentors, democratizing access to education and opportunity.
  Read the story.

Each of these examples is a glimmer of hope, a signpost pointing toward a world where humanity thrives in harmony with technology and nature. (you can find some more signals below)

 

Envisioning Our Positive Future 

So, what might a positive future look like? Here’s my vision (Chair of Boards Impact Forum and Digoshen, NED at listed & Private Companies, Executive Coach and Multimedia Visual Artist):

A Morning in 2034

“It’s a crisp, sunny morning in 2034. I’m standing on the terrace of my home, overlooking the calm, glistening water. The air feels fresh—a quiet testament to how far we’ve come in combating climate change. The trees are thriving, birdsong fills the air, and nature and humanity seem to have finally found a way to coexist harmoniously.

I’m holding a warm cup of tea, brewed from herbs grown in a local vertical farm. These farms, powered entirely by renewable energy, have transformed how we produce and share food, making sustainable living a natural part of life.

As I take a sip, my AI companion greets me with a gentle voice:

“Good morning, Liselotte. Shall we start the day with a guided reflection?

Your mentee has sent over his latest eco-design—he’d love your feedback! The global solar initiative update is ready when you are. Before lunch you have an individual executive coaching session with the leader working on his business expansion in India and managing the cultural differences, he shared three point he like to discuss. 

Later today, you have a meeting with the board on the strategy revisit; I’ve summarized progress and key areas to discuss. In the afternoon you have a presentation at your virtual art exhibition presentation on .how your artwork connects with themes of renewal and resilience.

And for dinner, all the food is ordered and most dishes will be automatically prepared in the kitchen. There’s a checklist of tasks for you and your husband, which should only take about half an hour, so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy with your sons and their families when they arrive!”

The AI feels more like a trusted partner than a machine, helping me focus on what matters most. 

I glance toward the bay, where an electric ferry glides silently across the water, connecting neighborhoods seamlessly. Nearby, children are tending to a community garden as part of their school curriculum—learning sustainability and cooperation in ways we once only dreamed of.

Later, I walk to the neighborhood hub, a space designed for sharing tools, ideas, and solutions. Today’s gathering focuses on extending the lifecycle of products through regenerative practices. Collaboration and sharing are now part of everyday life, bringing a sense of purpose and connection to our community.

As I return home, I reflect on how much more equitable and peaceful the world feels. AI has bridged cultural divides, mediated conflicts, and fostered understanding. Clean energy is accessible to everyone, and policies ensure balance between humanity, technology, and the planet.

Later, I walk to the neighborhood hub, a space designed for sharing tools, ideas, and solutions. Today’s gathering focuses on extending the lifecycle of products through regenerative practices. Collaboration and sharing are now part of everyday life, bringing a sense of purpose and connection to our community.

As I return home, I reflect on how much more equitable and peaceful the world feels. AI has bridged cultural divides, mediated conflicts, and fostered understanding. Clean energy is accessible to everyone, and policies ensure balance between humanity, technology, and the planet.”

Actions Toward This Future – Signals of Change

Creating a positive future starts now. Consider these initiatives making a difference:

• Board Leadership Programs: Directors trained through Digoshen’s and Boards Impact Forum’s Boards Oversight of Sustainability and Boards Oversight of Responsible AI programs are leading the way, sharing transformative insights to guide their organizations toward sustainable growth and they are sharing their positive experiences of the program quotes from the Sustainability Program and quotes from the AI program.
• Hopepunk: This storytelling movement, built on resilience, kindness, and collective action, reminds us that radical hope is both inspiring and actionable for individuals, companies, and boards.
  Read more about Hopepunk.
• Balanced Bridge: Launching this December, Digoshen and Boards Impact Forum introduces Balanced Bridge, a 31-day guided journey to cultivate clarity, calm, and connection for a positive future through daily reflections on gratitude, self-compassion, purpose, and belonging. Free of Charge.
  Sign up to be notified when it launches!

Your Turn to Imagine

This future isn’t just a dream—it’s a shared project. By imagining your version of a positive future, you can spark actions that bring it closer to reality.

What does your future look like? What signals of hope do you see today?

Together, let’s use the greatest tool we have—our minds—and craft a world worth living in. The unimaginable doesn’t have to be daunting; it can be the beacon that guides us forward.

 

Recommendations

Read the book

Imaginable: How to see the future coming and be ready for anything by Jane McGonigal

Learn more from the streamed Verge 24 Conference

The Program

Day 1

Day 2 

 

Earlier Blogposts

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Learn More

Webinars, Peer Exchanges and Events

Events Autumn 2024 and Digoshen Calendar Autumn 2024

Board Programs

“Boards Oversight of Responsible AI”
“Boards Oversight of Sustainability“