If you are moderately integrated the use of the internet, you must have noticed the dizzying evolution driven by artificial intelligence: filters that estimate our age, chats with which it seems that you have a conversation with a real person, and tools that solve homework, video editors, generators images, virtual assistants, translators in real-time, medical diagnostics, precise, among many other tools. All of this makes us question whether what we have learned and planned to have relevance in the present and, even more, if we are prepared for what is coming.
We face social and economic challenges. The automation and optimization that provides the AI could displace traditional jobs, demanding a reconfiguration of the global economy. In the workplace, skills that were essential, they can become obsolete, making the continuous learning is a necessity and not a luxury. In the health sector, the biotechnology and AI promise a longer and healthier life, but also arise questions about ethics, privacy, and up to where it should reach the human intervention.
Before this future to be unstoppable, you have two options. The first is simply to wait and see how businesses, governments, and individuals facing these challenges. Although this passive option may seem like the most comfortable and less risky, it is also the more we distance of the opportunities that present themselves.
The second option refers us back to historic moments of great change, as the times post-war, colonization, the industrial revolution and globalization. Moments that more than one have made us dream with the “if only I could have been there”. This second option leads us to recognize that we are in another of those decisive moments.
If you choose this second option is essential to be alert and prepared to identify the countless options that are already emerging. It is impossible to anticipate all of those opportunities and the one who claims to know all, you surely have something to sell. But history shows us that it is in these moments where the wealth and culture of the countries and individuals has changed dramatically.
We are just seeing the tip of the iceberg of these changes. Today, the areas of continuing education, working remotely, the personalized health, entrepreneurship, digital, and data analysis and the production custom mark the path. But all the days arise innovations, many of them the product of the same artificial intelligence to improve itself. The challenge is for everyone, including governments. Those involved in public management are already reconsidering areas as urbanization, smart, the public health optimized, education adaptive and security.
For many, the future is hopeful. For others, it's terrifying. But it is a challenge that we must all face. These changes can lead to the generation of humans, more prosperous and better conditions of life, or they may exacerbate the economic and social gaps.
The scenarios are contrasting. A hopeful future in which artificial intelligence to customize medical treatments based on the genetic and medical history of the individual. Where diseases before fatal are now treatable or curable. Smart cities that minimize pollution, in order to optimize the traffic and promote healthy lifestyles. However, we can also face a future less promising, with inequalities exacerbated and a concentration of power in the hands of the few.
These extreme scenarios occupy the minds of world leaders. But, what can we make from our individual space? The choice, as all, is ours, and the decisions we make today will have an impact on our life, in our children and our grandchildren.
Below, I share what I think we should make all those who want to take advantage of this historic moment:
- Continuous Learning: We live in a world in constant evolution. The ability to learn and adapt quickly is critical. Whether you're a student, an entrepreneur, or a parent, the curiosity and insatiable desire to learn must be constant. The information is available to those who wish to both use and does not require any extraordinary effort to obtain it.
- Empathy: In a hyper-connected world, understand and connect with people of different cultures, contexts will be essential. Although the need to learn a new language can be decreased, to understand different cultures and traditions will be crucial for the future.
- Critical Thinking: Before the overload of information and the possibility of disinformation on the part of machines or people, the ability to analyze and discern becomes more vital than ever.
- Flexibility: We face times of change. Adaptability in mentality, life style and approaches of survival will be essential.
- Networking: Establish a diverse network of contacts can open doors to unique opportunities. Connect with people of similar interests and attend events, whether face-to-face or virtual, keeps us abreast of emerging trends.
- Technical Skills: It is not essential to be an expert programmer, but it is crucial to understand how they work computers, algorithms, neural networks and all the emerging technologies.
- Mental health and well-being: In a fast-paced world, taking care of our mental health is vital. The practice of mindfulness can be a big differentiator between those who are now mesmerized by the algorithms which compete for our attention.
- Ethics and Accountability: In the technological era, it is essential to have a deep understanding of the ethics, especially when considering the areas of AI and biotechnology that pose moral dilemmas.
- Communication: Despite digitization, skills such as effective communication, the ability to work in a team, and the art of public speaking are still essential.
- Curiosity and Open-Mindedness: It is necessary to be willing to explore new ideas and new technologies, going out of our comfort zone and being willing to change the way we understand the world.
- Financial Planning: In a world full of uncertainties, a financial planning robusta is essential. This involves diversifying investments and understand the technologies emerging economic.
- Active participation with decision-makers: Beyond casting a vote, it is crucial to engage in public debates, join civil society organizations and to make our voices heard and actions to influence the future.
The future is full of promises and challenges. While the technology advances by leaps and bounds, the direction we take is up to us. It is essential that we adapt, we learn, and, above all, we act. Not enough to be spectators of this revolution; it is the time to be the protagonists and co-creators of a future that is more equitable and prosperous.
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