Newsletter #52: Soft Factors
In a world marked by constant change, even a brief greeting can build a bridge—between places, people, and perspectives. Such small connections foster a sense of belonging and are the first step toward shaping uncertainty together.
Newsletter #51: AI and the World of Work
The role of humans is changing: Instead of doing things ourselves, we are increasingly delegating, evaluating, and managing—a new skill set that fundamentally challenges learning and education. AI delivers fast, seemingly sound results, but it is not free from errors or nonsense. What will be crucial is how we, as humans, learn to deal with these uncertainties and use AI responsibly as a partner.
Newsletter #50 So what? Disorder as a Value
What Europe is experiencing today as a new disorder is the familiar norm elsewhere: a world shaped by pragmatic action and shifting alliances, where rule-based orders coexist with opportunistic improvisation. The paradise of reliability is fading, and we must learn to renegotiate the balance between stable architects and flexible craftsmen.
Newsletter #49: Project Organization
Sometimes uncertainty begins in a very unassuming way—with a simple greeting from another city, right in the midst of everyday life. Such small connections remind us that change rarely happens in isolation and that a shared sense of direction grows even in small ways.
#48 Purpose in Times of Crisis
In times of growing uncertainty and multiple crises, purpose proves to be not merely a marketing promise, but a sustainable tool for resilience. Those who understand and live out the deeper meaning of their actions strengthen their perseverance and loyalty—especially when external circumstances create pressure. An inner focus on the “why” makes it possible to concentrate on what matters most and remain effective in the small things.
#47 Courage Can Be Learned
Courage does not arise in spite of fear, but rather in the face of it—and often precisely when our rights or values are at stake. Stories of people who dare to take action in precisely such moments show that courage is an everyday act of self-determination that opens up space for creativity and resistance. This understanding helps us recognize and strengthen our own courage in everyday life.
#46 Value Creation of the Future
The expected productivity gains from AI in businesses face material and organizational hurdles. People remain indispensable for effectively managing and evaluating AI and for assuming responsibility. At the same time, the AI revolution opens up opportunities for industry and skilled workers—including here in Germany. However, the true value of future work is no longer measured by time invested, but by ideas, impact, and quality. What metrics could replace time as a measure of value?
#45 Turnarounds
Business models are in flux—their end is certain, and their new beginning is often challenging. Successful turnarounds don’t start with cost-cutting measures, but with listening, cultural change, and a clear strategic focus. The courage to pursue a consistent realignment, patience, and restoring employee pride are crucial for sustainable recovery—a lesson learned from examples ranging from industry giants to mid-sized companies.
#44 Compromise
The political debate in Germany is marked by bitter disputes and personal hostility—a reflection of our complex democracy. But right now, more than ever, it is important to re-value compromise as both the price and the means of freedom: It makes majorities and the ability to act possible, even if it never brings complete satisfaction. In an era that demands simple solutions, true strength lies in patient negotiation and a shared commitment to achieving what is possible.
#43 Investing During a Crisis?
Those who merely cut costs and halt investments during times of crisis risk stagnation. Studies show that companies that combine cost-cutting with targeted innovation emerge from the crisis stronger—with higher revenue and market share. Resilience means more than just persevering; it requires the courage to redefine priorities and actively shape the future—especially when uncertainty is on the rise.