We explore backcasting, a strategic foresight technique that starts with your preferred future and works backward to determine what needs to happen to achieve it, complementing the scenario planning methods discussed in previous episodes.

• Backcasting flips traditional planning by beginning with a clear vision of success, unlike forecasting which projects current trends forward
• This approach breaks free from present-day constraints when navigating complex "super shifts" that require transformative change
• The process involves articulating a specific, measurable preferred future, then identifying major milestones working backward to the present
• For each milestone, analyze required changes in technology, policy, organization, skills, and address potential obstacles
• Translate the backward pathway into a forward-looking roadmap with clear priorities for immediate action
• Backcasting is particularly powerful when creating shared vision, revealing dependencies, and connecting long-term goals with present actions
• Combine backcasting with scenario planning to both prepare for multiple futures while actively working toward your preferred future

Your challenge: Choose one domain affected by a super shift, define a preferred future 10-15 years out, work backward to identify milestones, then create 3-5 immediate priorities you can start working on in the next three months.

ORDER SUPERSHIFTS! bit.ly/supershifts

🎧 Listen Now On:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/think-forward-conversations-with-futurists-innovators-and-big-thinkers/id1736144515

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0IOn8PZCMMC04uixlATqoO

Web: https://thinkforward.buzzsprout.com/

Thank you for joining me on this ongoing journey into the future. Until next time, stay curious, and always think forward.

FIF Series EP 70 - Backcasting Your Way to Preferred Futures