Forever Skills

INTRODUCTION

Where might we find certainty in a world of change?

The Greek philosopher Heraclitus is famously quoted as observing that ‘Change is the only constant in life’. We’re not so sure.

Now, you’re probably thinking, ‘Wow, it’s paragraph one and already they’re questioning one of the key tenets of a renowned Greek philosopher. That’s a bit bold!’ And perhaps it is. But this book is all about challenging that theory (or, more precisely, the word ‘only’) and answering questions such as:

• Are some things evergreen?
• What do we want to hold on to?
• What, if anything, is forever?

Now don’t get us wrong — clearly the point Heraclitus was making is still a very relevant reminder that change is inevitable and we should prepare ourselves accordingly. However, we also believe it’s worth considering what other things will not fundamentally change, and how this understanding might actually prepare future generations, our organisations, and, indeed, ourselves, for whatever change awaits us in the future.

We’re not alone. We’ve interviewed and surveyed hundreds of extraordinary people from around the world — leaders, practitioners and professionals from virtually every field of endeavour — in an effort to discover which skills they have most relied on to achieve their success and the skills they believe will always matter. (A more thorough explanation of our research methodology can be found in the three appendices at the end of this book.)

This journey has led us to the 12 skills ...