Just got back from the World Business Forum in NYC. Two days listening to some very accomplished people in a range of fields. Stimulating, inspiring, cool.
Walter Isaacson, author of the acclaimed Steve Jobs biography, had this insight: “Innovation stands at the intersection of the humanities and technology.”
Carolyn Everson of Facebook showed us the future: “Mobile and video isn’t about marketing, it’s about your business model.” She added, “It’s critical to be a listening organization, and listening organizations breed curiosity, empathy, and collaboration.”
Mark Bertolini, CEO of Aetna, warned against “the terrorism of the spreadsheet” with which decisions are made without any consideration of the human and cultural implications.
Herminia Ibarra of INSEAD had this provocative thought: “Don’t change how you think to change how you act, change how you ACT to change how you think.”
Stephen Ritz, who’s working miracles with students in the South Bronx (GreenBronxMachine.org), turned the “Serenity Prayer” on its head: “I’m not willing to accept the things I can’t change. I want to change the things I can’t accept.”
And two-time Oscar winner Kevin Spacey reminded us: “Stories are the substance of our experiences. Because of technology, there’s never been a better moment to tell vivid stories.”
Go tell your story!
Your thoughts?
Michael