No one likes surprises. Observing patterns of behavior can help you envision possible future scenarios. To anticipate what’s coming, pay attention to conversations, actions, and trends around you. Imagine how things might look tomorrow, next week, or next year. Connect the dots between your observations and potential future outcomes. Consider what needs to change to achieve that vision and determine the steps to get there.

Anticipating change enables you to address challenges and respond to questions before they arise, making it easier for others to support your ideas. Experimenting with different approaches quickly can help you discover what works and what doesn’t within a group. Analyzing data from customer interactions can lead to new ideas, growth plans, or problem-solving strategies. To make the most of this data, focus on specific questions you want answered and consider various sources of information, such as numbers, interviews, opinions, and feedback.

Being aware of potential future situations allows you to handle both positive and negative events, giving you control over what happens next. Timing is crucial, so stay informed about current events and be prepared to take action when necessary. As you improve your ability to anticipate change, you may even experience events unfolding in slow motion, enabling you to make well-informed decisions in the moment.