WHAT THIS IS

The Futures Thinking Canvas is a structured way to step back from day-to-day thinking and look at what could be coming next. It helps you explore signals of change, imagine different futures, and make better strategic choices today.

It is based on ideas from strategic foresight the same methods used by leading organisations, governments, and innovators to prepare for uncertainty and opportunity.

In Be More Strategic, Chapter 8: Be More Future Focused, Be a Visionary, Charlie explains that being visionary means not just predicting the future but creating readiness for several possible futures and choosing intentionally where to play.

“Futures thinking is not about being right, it’s about being ready.”

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WHY IT MATTERS

Most people and organisations are trapped in short-term cycles, largely reacting to today instead of shaping tomorrow.

‘Futures thinking’ helps you:

• Scan for weak signals of change before others see them

• Identify emerging risks and opportunities

• Stretch your imagination beyond one version of the future

• Make decisions today that keep you adaptable tomorrow

Whether you are leading a business, a team, or your own life, thinking ahead is a learnable discipline, not an innate talent.

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HOW TO USE THIS TOOL

You can use the Futures Thinking Canvas alone, with your team, or in a workshop.

All you need is a notebook, whiteboard, or digital board and an open mind.

Work through the sections below: discuss, imagine, and note key insights.