Turning Into the Skid: Embracing Change in ‘Generation Transition’

In a recent episode of Brené Brown’s Dare to Lead podcast, renowned futurist Amy Webb shared some powerful insights into topics that have been very top-of-mind here recently at Agile Leadership Journey. 

Webb points out that we’re currently in the midst of what she calls a “super cycle” of change, explaining that it is an era marked by rapid and often unpredictable transformations, particularly driven by advances in technology. Today, that conversation is dominated by artificial intelligence (AI). 

AI is changing how we work, how we create and consume information, and even how art and music are created (so … basically everything). Often, change is a positive thing. It can bring new and exciting ways of doing things, or new people, experiences, and opportunities into our lives – but change can also be nerve-racking and downright exhausting. To protect our mental and emotional wellness, Webb confirms what we’ve suspected: We need to increase our capacity for change and uncertainty. 

Webb uses a great metaphor to describe our current situation. Culture-altering technology like AI is like hitting a patch of ice while driving. Some of us may instinctively slam on the brakes, but the key to maintaining control is to steer into the slide. It might seem counterintuitive, but we’ll be better off if we embrace the skid instead of fighting it.

For some, our natural inclination to resist change and stick with what we already know is less about avoidance and more about survival. However, in the face of profound shifts – such as those we see with AI – this approach must be re-evaluated. To thrive, we’ll need to take advantage of the opportunities presented by AI while also remaining on alert for threats or unexpected challenges. 

Webb’s concept of “Generation Transition” or “Gen T” helps put a name to the idea that this super cycle of change is a massive one. We are shifting from one way of life to another, fundamentally driven by technological innovation. ALJ founder and CEO Pete Behrens and Agile pioneer Jim Highsmith recently explored this precise topic in a new (free to download) ebook, Technology Innovations: Learning From the Past and Exploring the Future With AI. Part history lesson, part cautionary tale the authors look back at previous super cycles of change and using those experiences to help guide us through the new, inescapable world of AI. 

The pace of change isn’t slowing down anytime soon. How will we prepare for the inevitable super cycles that arrive in 10, 20, or 30 years? How can we learn to embrace continuous learning and adaptation without exhausting our capacity for change? 

It won’t be easy, but it will be easier if we’re able to take our anxiety and leverage it in a way that helps us embrace uncertainty. As we continue through this era of significant transformation, remember: Sometimes, the best way to regain control is by embracing the very forces that seem most daunting.

Looking to dive deeper? Watch Amy Webb’s SXSW 2024 Emerging Tech Trend Report keynote.