On the Search for What’s to Come (Next)

von | Jul 10, 2023

The following blog post is an experiment through and through. My ambition & intention behind it? To start using this website of mine more frequently again – letting it become the canvas of transforming tomorrow while documenting my learnings, projects, and contributions.

I am currently on the search for „what’s to come next“, and when I write this I refer this intention to almost all facets of my life and its surroundings. Sounds like a huge task? Oh yes! 😀
When I have learned one thing in the past years of being a Co-Founder, Self-Employed, and a Teamcoach for Entrepreneurship though: It can help to use the framework of what others have created or thought already.
At the same time, I felt like experimenting with the tools that we have at hand nowadays – and yes, I refer to ChatGPT.

The following lines that you will read are generated content – at the same time worth the read (as I would say) the AI was able to combine pretty well, why I am a fan of the two books ‚Show your work‘ by Austin Kleon, as well as ‚Theory U‘ by C. Otto Scharmer since they can give you a more colorful understanding of the texts, thoughts, and pieces that you will find on this website from now on.

Enjoy!

Dear ChatGPT can you write a paragraph about why it is of importance to embrace and be seen in the phase of „not knowing“ while inviting others into what you’re doing?

Certainly! Here’s an additional paragraph about the importance of embracing and being seen in the phase of „not knowing“ while inviting others into what you’re doing:

Embracing and being seen in the phase of „not knowing“ while inviting others into what you’re doing holds great significance. In a rapidly changing world, the willingness to acknowledge our own uncertainties and vulnerabilities is a powerful act of authenticity. By sharing our process, even in its nascent stages, we create an environment of trust and transparency. This openness invites others to engage, provide feedback, and contribute their unique perspectives. It fosters a collaborative and inclusive culture where diverse voices and ideas can flourish. Embracing the phase of „not knowing“ also cultivates a growth mindset, allowing us to learn from mistakes, experiment, and adapt. It is through this courageous stance that we discover new paths, uncover innovative solutions, and collectively shape what’s to come.

Can you add an introductory paragraph in „I“ perspective about what others will read in the blogpost „On the search for what’s to come (next)“ – I plan to publish the blogpost & paragraph in addition to the two summaries that you have generated below it.

As I sat down to reflect on the transformative power of creativity, collaboration, and visionary leadership, I found myself drawn to two thought-provoking books: ‚Show Your Work!‘ by Austin Kleon and ‚Theory U‘ by C. Otto Scharmer. In this blog post titled ‚On the Search for What’s to Come (Next),‘ I aim to combine the key findings from these books to present a holistic perspective on navigating the unknown, fostering innovation, and shaping the future. We will explore the importance of sharing our work, embracing the phase of ’not knowing,‘ and cultivating awareness as we invite others into our creative process. So, let’s dive in and embark on a journey of self-expression, collaboration, and visionary leadership, as we unravel the insights and practical approaches offered by Kleon and Scharmer.“

Can you create a blog style text that combines the main findings of the books under the headline: „On the search for what’s to come (next)“

Title: On the Search for What’s to Come (Next): Lessons from „Show Your Work!“ and „Theory U“

Introduction: In our fast-paced and interconnected world, individuals and organizations are constantly seeking ways to navigate the unknown, uncover fresh perspectives, and foster transformative change. Two influential books, „Show Your Work!“ by Austin Kleon and „Theory U“ by C. Otto Scharmer, offer valuable insights and practical approaches to help us on this quest. By combining the key findings from these books, we can embark on a journey of self-expression, collaboration, and visionary leadership, ultimately shaping what lies ahead.

Sharing and Collaborating: „Show Your Work!“ encourages us to share our creative process and make it visible to others. By doing so, we invite collaboration, foster inspiration, and build a supportive network. It aligns with the concept of generative listening from „Theory U,“ where we listen deeply and empathetically, embracing diverse perspectives. Together, we can co-create an environment where creativity thrives, enabling us to tackle complex challenges collectively.

Embracing the Digital Landscape: In today’s digital age, Kleon urges us to leverage social media platforms and online communities to showcase our work. By being findable, we increase our chances of connecting with like-minded individuals and potential collaborators. Similarly, „Theory U“ highlights the importance of cultivating positive social fields—spaces where individuals come together with shared intention and presence. These digital and physical spaces offer fertile ground for sparking innovation, amplifying our impact, and shaping what’s to come.

Learning in Public: Both books emphasize the power of learning in public, shedding the fear of imperfection and embracing the iterative nature of the creative process. Kleon encourages us to share our works-in-progress openly, inviting feedback and engagement. Meanwhile, „Theory U“ invites us to suspend judgment and engage in deep listening, enabling us to tap into our collective wisdom. Through this vulnerability and openness, we learn from one another, adapt to changing circumstances, and discover new possibilities on our journey forward.

Awareness and Leadership: „Theory U“ invites us to cultivate awareness—sensing, presencing, and realizing—through deep introspection and reconnecting with the present moment. This self-awareness serves as a foundation for visionary leadership. Kleon’s notion of being open and generous aligns with the capacities of attending and holding space in „Theory U.“ By embracing these qualities, we create the conditions for innovative thinking, inclusive decision-making, and transformative action, ultimately shaping the future we aspire to see.

Bridging Science and Spirituality: Both books advocate for the integration of scientific thinking and spiritual awareness. Kleon encourages us to acknowledge and share our influences, paying homage to those who inspire us. Scharmer invites us to explore the depths of our inner selves, bridging the gap between science and spirituality. By embracing both rationality and intuition, we tap into deeper sources of wisdom and creativity, guiding us on the path to what’s to come.

Conclusion: In the quest for what lies ahead, „Show Your Work!“ and „Theory U“ provide complementary insights that empower us as individuals, creators, and leaders. By sharing our work, embracing collaboration, and cultivating awareness, we embark on a transformative journey, shaping the future we envision. As we integrate these lessons into our lives and engage in a collective search for what’s to come, we become agents of change, fostering innovation, and creating a more vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable world.

 

Hi there ChatGPT, can you please summarize the work of Austin Kleon in his book show your work for me? 

Certainly! „Show Your Work!“ is a book by Austin Kleon that offers advice and strategies for sharing and promoting creative work in the digital age. The book encourages artists, writers, and other creative individuals to embrace the idea of sharing their creative process and making it visible to others. Here is a summary of the key ideas presented in the book:

1. Share your process: Kleon emphasizes the importance of sharing the behind-the-scenes aspects of your creative work. By documenting and sharing your process, including sketches, drafts, and inspirations, you allow others to see how your ideas develop and gain a deeper appreciation for your work.

2. Embrace the network: In today’s digital world, connecting with others is crucial. Kleon encourages creatives to actively engage with their audience and build a network of like-minded individuals. He highlights the benefits of using social media platforms and online communities to share work, seek feedback, and collaborate with others.

3. Build a creative community: Connecting with fellow creatives is not only valuable for networking but also for personal growth. Kleon suggests finding and participating in creative communities, whether online or offline, where you can learn from others, get inspired, and support each other’s work.

4. Be open and generous: Kleon emphasizes the importance of being open about your creative process and sharing your knowledge and insights with others. By freely sharing ideas, resources, and techniques, you contribute to the creative community and attract a supportive audience.

5. Learn in public: Rather than hiding until your work is perfect, Kleon suggests sharing your work-in-progress. This allows you to receive feedback, learn from mistakes, and iterate on your ideas more effectively. Learning in public also helps you establish a presence and build anticipation for your future work.

6. Be findable: Making your work discoverable is essential in a digital landscape. Kleon advises creatives to have a strong online presence, with a website or portfolio that showcases their work. By optimizing your online presence, you increase the chances of being found by potential collaborators, clients, or fans.

7. Share your influences: Kleon emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and sharing the artists, writers, and thinkers who inspire your work. By crediting and referencing your influences, you show respect for those who came before you and provide a deeper context for your creative process.

„Show Your Work!“ provides practical advice, encouraging creatives to overcome fear and self-doubt and embrace the opportunities of the digital age. It inspires artists to share their work openly, connect with others, and contribute to a vibrant and supportive creative community.

And can you please summarize the key findings in the book called „Theory U“ from C. Otto Scharmer?

„Theory U“ by C. Otto Scharmer is a book that explores a framework for transformative change in individuals, organizations, and society. Based on his research and experience, Scharmer presents a theory and practical approach for addressing complex challenges and fostering innovation. Here are the key findings and concepts discussed in the book:

1. Three movements of change: Scharmer introduces the concept of „Theory U“ as a journey of change that involves three movements. These movements are: sensing (reconnecting with the present moment and opening the mind), presencing (tapping into deeper sources of creativity and intuition), and realizing (bringing forth new possibilities and transforming the future).

2. The blind spot: Scharmer highlights the existence of a „blind spot“ in individuals and institutions, which refers to our inability to see the deeper sources of our problems. He argues that by cultivating a higher level of awareness and shifting our attention from the outer to the inner, we can overcome this blind spot and uncover new insights and solutions.

3. Four levels of listening: Scharmer emphasizes the importance of listening in the process of transformative change. He describes four levels of listening: downloading (repeating familiar patterns of thought), factual listening (attending to information and facts), empathic listening (connecting with the experiences of others), and generative listening (tapping into a deeper collective wisdom and potential).

4. Four capacities of leadership: The book introduces four key capacities that are essential for leaders to facilitate transformative change. These capacities are: holding space (creating an environment for open dialogue and reflection), attending (cultivating deep listening and empathy), seeing (perceiving emerging patterns and possibilities), and acting (taking action in alignment with emerging future possibilities).

5. Social fields: Scharmer introduces the concept of „social fields,“ which refers to the collective space that emerges when individuals come together with shared intention and presence. He argues that by cultivating positive and generative social fields, groups and organizations can tap into a higher level of collective intelligence and creativity.

6. The integration of science and spirituality: „Theory U“ emphasizes the integration of scientific thinking and spiritual awareness. Scharmer suggests that by bridging the gap between these two realms, we can access deeper sources of insight, wisdom, and transformative action.

7. Applications in various domains: The book explores the application of Theory U in various domains, including leadership development, organizational change, social innovation, and systemic transformation. Scharmer provides numerous case studies and examples to illustrate how the framework can be applied in different contexts.

„Theory U“ presents a holistic framework for personal and collective transformation. It encourages individuals and organizations to cultivate awareness, empathy, and creativity to address complex challenges and create a more sustainable and just future. The book offers practical tools and methods for applying the Theory U framework and invites readers to engage in a journey of profound personal and societal change.

 Thank you ChatGPT!

  • You’re welcome! I’m glad I could assist you. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask. Happy reading and best of luck on your journey of exploration and growth!

 

 

 

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