“The last few decades have belonged to a certain kind of person with a certain kind of mind – computer programmers who could crank code, lawyers who could craft contracts, MBA’s who could crunch numbers. But the keys to the kingdom are changing hands. The future belongs to a very different kind of mind – creators and empathizers, pattern recognizers, and meaning makers. These people – artists, inventors, designers, storytellers, caregivers, consolers, big picture thinkers-will now reap society’s rewards and share its greatest joys.”

So begins the book “A Whole New Mind — Why Right-Brainers Will Rule the Future” by Daniel H. Pink written in 2005. I picked it up from my local library after having it recommended to me by a successful creative business person. Being a creative small business person myself, I was intrigued with the title and the future it promises.

I totally appreciate his advocacy for creatives and really want to believe in his optimism, but the reality of the past 5 years has contributed to my skepticism. It is worth a read, is inspiring, and organizes some key ideas in a very helpful format, but I am not yet convinced of the paradigm shift he outlines. Maybe 5 more years?

Pink also has a new book out called “Drive” where he looks at what truly motivates us as humans. I look forward to exploring his new thesis.