5 abilities that keep you relevant no matter how fast the world changes
Read time: 6 minutes
A few nights ago, as I read my kids a story and put them to bed, I found myself thinking about the world they’ll grow up in.
The pace of change is so fast, and it’s accelerating, so I quite often wonder what their careers, relationships with technology, and daily lives will look like when they’re older.
In just one decade we’ve completely reshaped how we work, live, and connect. And with AI accelerating the shift, I have no doubt that even bigger changes lie ahead over the next 10 years.
I imagine that before long, most companies will:
- Run entire operations from a laptop
- Draw talent from anywhere on the planet
- Stay lean and agile rather than building large teams
The old promise of a steady, lifelong job is disappearing, and being replaced by portfolio careers, side projects, and more fluid ways of working.
In this landscape, purely technical skills can quickly become outdated. In my opinion it’s the deeper, human abilities that set us apart and keep us relevant no matter how the world evolves. They give us the most leverage and are really worth investing in now.
Here are five that I believe matter most:
1. Growth mindset and self-awareness
People with a strong growth mindset are 47% more likely to feel resilient and empowered in their careers (1).
People who believe they can grow tend to adapt more easily and recover faster from setbacks. When you pair that mindset with self-awareness, it allows you to recognise your own patterns and actively improve them.
Try this: Regularly ask for feedback, even something as simple as, “What’s one thing I could do better?” The answers can be (very) eye-opening.
2. Influence and presence
82% of employers see the ability to influence others as a key skill for the future (2).
Whether you’re pitching an idea or leading a team, being able to share your perspective with clarity and confidence is a superpower. It’s not about being the loudest voice, but about making your ideas land. A visible personal brand can give you extra leverage, too.
Try this: Start sharing your work and insights, whether in a team meeting or on LinkedIn. Showing what you’re learning or building helps others see your value.
3. Critical and analytical thinking
73% of employers rank analytical thinking among the top skills for the next five years (3).
Data is everywhere, but insight is rare. People who are analytical thinkers can sift through the noise, spot patterns, and ask better questions. Being able to make sense of complexity leads to better decisions and more creative solutions.
Try this: Before any big decision, list the assumptions you’re making, then challenge each one. It’s a simple exercise, but sharpens your thinking and reveals hidden gaps.
4. Emotional intelligence (EQ)
90% of top performers display high emotional intelligence (4).
AI can write code and generate content, but it can’t lead with empathy or navigate a tricky conversation. EQ (the ability to understand emotions, both yours and others’) is what allows us to build trust and guide teams through uncertain times.
Try this: In your next conversation, practise truly active listening. Focus completely on the other person, and resist the urge to plan your reply as they speak (not as easy as it sounds!).
5. Flexibility and adaptability
91% of HR leaders say adaptability outweighs technical know-how when hiring for the future (5).
In a world of constant shifts, the ability to bend without breaking is pretty essential. Having switched careers, retrained, and pivoted a business myself, I know it’s not always comfortable, but it’s a skill worth strengthening.
Try this: Next time you feel resistance to a change (new tech, a different role, etc.) ask yourself, what can this teach me? Step outside your usual bubble: read something unfamiliar, join a new group, or volunteer for a stretch project.
The future may be unpredictable, but I really believe that strengthening these human skills gives us a huge advantage.
As my kids grow in this fast-moving world, I want them to see that these are the abilities that will always hold their value—and the best part is, we can start honing them right now.
Speak soon,
Dupé
PS: Whenever you're ready, feel free to enquire about working together: Get guidance on how to be more visible and grow your brand. Whether you need 1:1 coaching or ready-to-post content, hit reply and let’s chat!
Sources:
(1) Harvard Business Review
(2) Deloitte Human Capital Trends
(3) LinkedIn Future of Skills Report
(4) TalentSmartEQ
(5) World Economic Forum, Future of Jobs Report
