“If you break your leg, you will recover after a certain time, but it alters the way you walk forever.”
Feels like we all need a hug as we get out of our homes and get back to our routine. But hugs and handshakes won’t return so quickly, and routines may never be the same.
“There are known knowns; there are things we know we know. We also know there are known unknowns; that is to say we know there are some things we do not know. But there are also unknown unknowns–the ones we don’t know we don’t know.”
Donald Rumsfelds, Fmr. Secretary of Defense
Futurists and experts everywhere are predicting a post-coronavirus economic recession and major changes in how we live.
Below, influenced by information gathered from a few well-known futurists, we are sharing some fascinating insights on how things may play out in the immediate wake of the Coronavirus pandemic and the trends that are shaping the future for years to come.
Trend #1: Narcissism is Dead
A selfie is much more than a photography technique. It drives fashion and tourism.
In the new world, the constant worship of “me” will disappear or sharply decrease. It’s hard to remain a narcissist when you’re unemployed. Marketers will need to re-thunk how to use influencer marketing, especially in the fashion and tourism industries.
Suggested Read: This North African Country is Keeping COVID-19 Firmly Under Control. How?
Trend #2: Re-Shoring
In times of crisis we return to the familiar. More family, tighter knit circles, less globalization, more localization.
The financial crisis will force governments to bring the jobs home. Products may cost more but they will be better. Across all industries.
Trend #3: Ascetic Narratives
Let’s face it. A lot of people are going to have a lot less money.
This is going to affect every aspect of consumerism. People will buy what they need, and not need to buy.
Brands will have to deliver on value, we will become more practical, we will think twice before buying and ask if we really need it.
Trend #4: Economy vs. Ecology
Polarization will be accelerated here, as economy will trump ecology when it comes to accessible energy resources and we might witness the world taking a step back to move a step forward
On the other hand, man’s affect on the environment has been witnessed by all and the evidence is irrefutable. This will lead to increased transparency and growing demand from customers for sustainable practices.
Trend #5: The Connect Paradox
Quarantine and lockdown are basically preparing us for a future that will accelerate the digital transformation of every aspect of our life.
But, lockdown has also somehow slowed down time. We have been re-acquainted with the small things in life. We don’t hold on to our phones all the time, we take calks. May be some of this will stick around in the new world.
Related Read: What Will the World Look Like After COVID-19?
Trend #6: Peace
An undiscriminating abstract enemy has somehow brought the world together. We have witnessed daily random acts of kindness and caring that gives is hope and rare acts of cooperation between countries that were enemies only a month ago.
Trend #7: The Love & Divorce Paradox
In about 9 months there will be a baby boom. Unfortunately, many of these babies will start their life with divorced parents.
On the other hand, people who survived Corona alone, will enter new relationships with a deeper understanding of life’s simple pleasures.
Trend #8: Co-working Spaces Were Nice While they Lasted
The sharing economy boom could go bust in this era of social distancing. This new attitude will force a change in coworking space design as well.
In the meantime though, we have the present.
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