Outgrowing Old Norms: The Path to a Brighter Future Ahead
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Chapter 1: The Need for Purpose Beyond Profit
In a recent presentation, a singer passionately conveyed a message that resonated with many: businesses should pursue a mission greater than merely generating profit. “This is essential for a better world,” he proclaimed. “When corporations prioritize profits alone, they often exploit both workers and the environment.”
He acknowledged that while money is crucial for a business's survival, it should not be the sole focus. It’s vital for everyone involved—executives, employees, board members, and shareholders—to grasp this broader perspective. As I listened to his talk, I hoped to find inspiration for an upcoming conference in Singapore. However, rather than feeling motivated, I found myself increasingly frustrated.
The audience seemed enamored with the familiar rhetoric. They were unyielding to innovative concepts, which only encouraged the speaker to stick to the conventional script. The adage “If it isn’t broken, don’t fix it” seemed to echo throughout the room. But I questioned whether I wanted to echo the same sentiments.
Repeating the same presentation feels unproductive and doesn’t contribute anything new to the dialogue. Shouldn't we strive to evolve, to become enhanced versions of ourselves? Shouldn’t we aim for continual growth, even in the absence of strong incentives?
Section 1.1: The Cycle of Repetition
These questions linger in my mind. Why do we continuously revisit the same themes? Countless events share similar discussions, often framed as groundbreaking, yet they seldom introduce fresh ideas.
In corporate circles, the narrative goes: "Leading companies operate differently. They prioritize stakeholder balance and care about their broader impact. However, when challenges arise, leaders often resort to financial solutions—cost-cutting, restructuring, and divestitures. This is simply how corporations are wired.”
Four years ago, I attempted to break free from conventional thinking by envisioning an end to traditional corporate structures. I believed a “refresh” was necessary to keep discussions lively and relevant. However, this approach proved too controversial for typical conference attendees. It became apparent that we have created ideological echo chambers, amplified by social media. People with similar viewpoints cluster in these bubbles, seeking validation rather than challenging ideas.
Ironically, while social media has fostered transparency and connection, it has also made it harder to introduce new concepts without facing backlash. Posts that align with widely accepted beliefs tend to gain traction, while innovative alternatives struggle to find their footing. Progress seems increasingly elusive.
Subsection 1.1.1: Seeking New Insights
Section 1.2: Finding Motivation in Change
Feeling stuck, I regretted accepting the conference invitation. However, I was determined not to give up. I reached out to a former colleague, known for his innovative perspectives, to discuss current trends in the corporate sector.
His response, however, surprised me. “I’m out,” he shared. “I left that world two years ago. It felt like a dead-end. I was exhausted from being judged by those who lacked real business insight. I moved on because I couldn’t bear the feeling of being undervalued.”
He went on, “Now, I’m a K12 educator, and it feels rewarding. I’m shaping the future, leaving behind those resistant to change.” His frustration was palpable, but he unwittingly provided me with clarity. He had outgrown his previous self and evolved, even if he hadn’t fully recognized it.
Chapter 2: Embracing Change for a Better Future
In the first video, "Outgrow Tutorial - Creating Interactive Content in Minutes," the speaker emphasizes the importance of adapting and innovating within business frameworks to stay relevant and impactful.
I now have a clearer vision for my upcoming presentation. Instead of confronting the audience with radical ideas like “the end of the corporation,” I need to articulate the necessity of outgrowing outdated paradigms. We should engage in discussions about the evolving role of corporations in our society.
During the Industrial Revolution, corporations significantly improved living standards. The pressing question is: How can these organizations adapt to shape our future amidst rapid technological advancements? This requires more than just enhanced social responsibility. It may necessitate a fundamental reevaluation of our economic models.
If the audience can grasp that the future is flexible and that revolutionary conversations are essential for progress, it will serve as a vital step toward creating a society that incentivizes personal and collective growth for a better tomorrow.
In the second video, "How to Build an Outcome Quiz with Outgrow?", viewers learn practical strategies for creating interactive content that encourages engagement and fosters innovation within business settings.