Forward-thinking is a term that has not yet found its way into dictionaries. It is too “new”. However, much has been written about the topic and the characteristics of those who are forward-thinkers with visionaries Bill Gates and Steve Jobs topping the list of great forward-thinkers.
Forward-thinking has been described as
- thinking progressively
- looking beyond the “now” and formulating strategies for future success
- asking “what’s next?”
- looking ahead with an eye to improvement
- relating to the future with fresh perspectives and conscious departures which acknowledge that in this never-before-in-history time anything and everything is possible
- trying to figure out the goals of tomorrow, then trying to find the methods of tomorrow to achieve them
Becoming a forward-thinking musician is a tall order for the busy and at times, overwhelmed forward-looking musician. Is it possible to integrate the two behaviors? Some thoughts and questions to ponder as we begin anew with fresh eyes, ears, and minds this year of 2012.
- As a church musician, am I thinking progressively?
- As a teacher, am I looking ahead with an eye to improving my teaching skills?
- As a performer am I looking beyond the strictures of my instrument, the organ, and creating ways to better share this instruments and its great repertoire with my audiences?
- As a businessperson, am I able to get out of the “this is the way I have always kept the books” to finding ways to streamline this time-consuming task.
- As a writer of newsletters and blogs, am I relating to our readers with fresh perspectives and insights?
Dr. Jeannine Jordan, concert organist
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