Lifelong Learning

The Longevity Trap

Frank Diana Global Challenges , , , , ,

What if living longer isn’t the gift we imagine it to be?

In this op-ed for TIME, I explore the quiet crisis that comes with rising life expectancy – a world where our bodies may outlast our purpose, our savings, and our social roles. We’ve extended human life, but not always human meaning. The piece asks a deeply personal question with global consequences: What happens when we live longer, but not better?

I unpack why the “aging society” story is about more than pensions and healthcare – it’s about identity, purpose, and the design of a future that works across all life stages. This is a call to rethink how we structure work, caregiving, community, and belonging in an era where the old assumptions no longer hold.

Read the full piece on TIME: Time Op-Ed

Rehearsing For 2025: A Year-End Reflection

Frank Diana Trends and Predictions , , , , , , , , , ,

As another year draws to a close, I find myself drawn to a practice that transcends simple predictions. Rather than attempting to forecast the future, I focus on rehearsing it – imagining possible scenarios that help us prepare for whatever may unfold. Predictions often fail to capture the complexity, volatility, and cultural nuances of our interconnected world. Rehearsal, by contrast, is an active and flexible exercise: it invites us to consider “what if” and then equip ourselves with the tools, mindsets, and strategies to adapt.

As we look toward 2025, I invite you to consider a set of interrelated themes. These are not forecasts, but lenses through which we can examine global currents. By exploring these possibilities, we do not claim certainty. Instead, we gain the agility and resilience necessary to respond thoughtfully, no matter how events evolve.

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What Should My Children Study in School?

Frank Diana Education, Future Scenarios , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

As a keynote presenter and futurist, I am frequently asked by parents the pressing question: “What should my children study in school to thrive in an increasingly automated world?” In an era where technological advancements are rapidly reshaping the job landscape, my response emphasizes a balanced education that cultivates foundational skills like critical thinking and emotional intelligence, embraces STEM and digital literacy, and fosters adaptability and lifelong learning. Additionally, I advocate for focusing on human-centric fields, entrepreneurial abilities, ethical reasoning, and global awareness. By integrating these elements, we can equip the next generation with the tools they need to not only navigate but also shape the future of work and society.

To test the appropriateness of my response, I asked ChatGPT how it would respond. Here is the response:

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