Daily Inspiration: “Look for opportunities for change, but watch for the perils of inaction!”

“Look for opportunities for change, but watch for the perils of inaction!” – Futurist  Jim Carroll

A year ago today, I walked on stage in Dubai with my talk at the World Government Summit. It’s a massive event – and a fascinating one at that. Other speakers included Goldie Hawn, Forrest Whittaker, Robert deNiro, Will.i.Am of the Black Eyed Peas. Oh, and lots of business and government leaders.

It was kind of fascinating when I learned two weeks before the event that my original time slot was to be filled by the Prime Minister of India who had decided to attend.

Whatever.

The annual conference, which is a sort of follow on to the World Economic Forum, attempts to examine the positive role that government can play as the world faces multiple challenges and trends accelerate.

It’s a desperately needed theme as many in the world come to view government as the enemy and not a force for innovation (which sadly, is true in many countries.) And it is particularly important as we witness the continued shift towards dictatorial governments around the world, and an ongoing assault to democratic norms.

This fast world we find ourselves with tremendous opportunities if shaped positively, and if a structure for growth and innovation is put in place. Yet, those opportunities are lost if that is not done. Government has a key role to play, and that was a part of the focus of my talk!