Escape to Individualism

As the world feels overwhelming, people are focusing on one thing they can control – themselves. But there’s a tension between those who strive for stature and those who focus more inward. Focus on leveraging trusted relationships to help people express their identities as they choose, even if they choose historical norms

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KEYS: Global Trends - The Uneasy Decade

Methodology

Trend: In the face of a world that feels threatening and overwhelming, people are focusing on one thing they can control — themselves. While this focus on individualism has been high over the past decade, this year personal autonomy is the most powerful value. But this is, by definition, a multifaceted trend. We see the draw of simplicity, social status and seeking new experiences as ways of developing ourselves.

How it’s evolved: Individualism remains strong, especially in the era of AI. We’re seeing more of a focus on carving your own path in life, while pushing back on the boundaries and limitations set by society

* A Flourish chart

Our Trend Framework

Globalisation Fractures

Splintered Societies

Climate Convergence

Technowonder

Conscientious Health

Retreat to Old Systems

Nouveau Nihilism

The Power of Trust

Escape to Individualism

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