Dreaming at Work: What we, children and Science Fiction writers have in common? 🌌👶😊

Around 15 years ago, I came across an article about how companies in the U.S. were hiring science fiction writers to help executives become more creative. The main argument was that executives had become so cost-driven that they were losing the ability to visualize the future—a skill that is essential for designing products we’ll need in the years to come.

But why were they losing this creative mindset, something we’re all born with? Just observe a child playing 👶—they all have creativity. And so did we, once upon a time.

The reason might lie in the Six Sigma/productivity/cost-focused mindset that has dominated corporate culture for years, training us to think: How can I do this faster, cheaper, better? While this mindset is great for efficiency, it is a block for creativity.

Creativity, however, requires a restriction-free mindset. Dreaming doesn’t work with requirements and boundaries; otherwise, it’s not a dream. And it’s from dreams that we are able to live today with incredible innovations such as AI, Apple devices, Google, Tesla, cures for diseases, and so much more. 🚀✨

I was reminded of this article recently while listening to a podcast. A historian argued that science fiction is the most important genre to follow. Through it, we can identify human trends, fears, and desires, projected into the future—whether in utopian or dystopian forms.

In the spirit of Christmas, I want to remind us all: we need to dream—especially at work. 🎄

If we spend 100% of our time focused on production, cost-cutting, or fearing job insecurity, even the most desirable job can become a nightmare. To counterbalance this robotic, “Fordian-like” frame that restricts us, and runs counter to our true nature, we need to reconnect with what brings us joy, and apply it, as most as possible, to our daily work.

What makes you feel like a child again, when you are doing it? What tiny things make you smile? 😊 Even if it’s a small moment during your workday, try intentionally to make room for it.

This is essential not only for creating better products in the future but also for feeling good about the present and envisioning the future we want to live in. Visualization is the first step to creation. 🌟

I wish you all a blessed and joyful Christmas season. 🎄💫