Five questions for the futurist: Henrik Larsson Broman answers on supertrends and leadership report.
Henrik Larsson Broman is a futurist, researcher, speaker, trend analyst, sales expert, and author of the book “Supertrends.” For over 20 years, he has conducted numerous research projects and trend analyses to better understand how companies should navigate into the future and become competitive in an ever-changing environment. He has delivered over 1400 lectures in Sweden and internationally, and soon he will guest the EGN live webinar studio, to enlighten us on what is to come in the future. Before the webinar, to awaken our appetite, we asked him five questions on futurism. Read his answers right here.
1: What inspired you to become a futurist and focus on helping leaders navigate uncertainty and change?
Inventor Charles Kettering famously said, “I am interested in the future because I am going to spend the rest of my life there.” This sentiment deeply resonates with me. Like many, I’ve always been fascinated by the future—its possibilities, challenges, and the power we have to shape it. My own journey began at Kairos Future, a trend and future analysis company, where I led multiple projects exploring the future of sales. The deeper I delved, the more captivated I became. But my passion for understanding and analysing patterns, connections, and change is also part of who I am. For me, it’s not just about predicting what’s next—it’s about empowering others to actively create the future they want to see.
2: In your book “Supertrends,” you discuss navigating an ever-changing environment. Can you share one key trend from the EGN Leadership Report 2025 that leaders should prioritize?
From a business perspective, the adoption of AI stands out as the defining trend. The next few years will distinguish winners from those left behind. Organizations that experiment, adapt, and embrace AI as a tool to enhance their operations will thrive, while those hesitant to act will struggle. However, from a human perspective, sustainability is just as critical. Humanity faces immense environmental challenges, and the time to act is now. Businesses have both the responsibility and opportunity to drive innovation that benefits the planet while unlocking economic value. By addressing these dual imperatives, leaders can create a future that balances progress with preservation.
3: Leaders often feel overwhelmed by daily demands. What is your advice for leaders who struggle to find time to think strategically about the future?
The key is prioritization. Carve out time for reflection and strategic thinking—it’s not a luxury; it’s essential. Many believe constant action equals efficiency, but true effectiveness comes from deeply understanding what and why before jumping into execution. Research has shown that someone working 70 hours a week doesn’t necessarily achieve more than someone working 55 hours—if they focus on the right things. Leave space in your calendar for rest and reflection, even if it feels counterintuitive. This approach was popularized by Bill Gates, who, as early as the 1980s, implemented “Think Weeks” to focus on deep thinking, innovation, and learning. When we create time for thoughtful planning, we unlock better outcomes.
4: What roles do resilience, adaptability, and vision play in modern leadership, and how can leaders cultivate these qualities in themselves and their teams?
They are crucial. Resilience enables leaders to navigate challenges, maintain composure under pressure, and inspire confidence in their teams during turbulent times. It is about staying focused and resourceful, even in the face of setbacks. Adaptability, on the other
hand, involves fostering curiosity, staying open to new ideas, and having the ability to unlearn outdated approaches. In my lectures I often say: “The most important skill of the future is the skill to learn new skills (and unlearn old skills).” I believe this is true.
Vision, meanwhile, provides direction and purpose by answering the critical questions, “Where are we going?” and “Why are we going there?” In an increasingly uncertain and complex world, a clear vision not only guides decision-making but also instils a sense of meaning and focus within teams.
5: If attendees take away just one insight or tool from your webinar, what do you hope it will be, and why?
If there’s one message, I want attendees to leave with, it’s this: Don’t fear the future—embrace it! The world around us is undoubtedly complex and sometimes daunting, but by understanding trends and the forces shaping our world, we can gain the clarity and confidence needed to thrive. Rather than being overwhelmed, we can turn uncertainty into opportunity. With the right mindset and tools, the future doesn’t have to be something to fear—it can be a space to create, innovate, and grow. This perspective not only calms anxieties but also empowers individuals and organizations to lead with optimism and purpose.
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