Acknowledgments

“Never mistake a clear view for a short distance.” A good friend of mine often reminds me of the old axiom—true in all aspects of life, including, I have found, writing a book. My view was always clear, but now that I have gone the long distance, I've discovered something writers in particular cannot do without along the way: people who believe in them. I've drawn mightily from that resource in the course of writing this book.

An early vote of confidence came from John Larson, a talented agent who, after attending a PUSH conference, encouraged me to write a book. I will always be thankful to him for acting as my guide and advocate in the publishing world.

John introduced me to Karen Murphy, senior editor at Jossey-Bass, who saw a real need for a practical business book in the futures field. I am grateful to Karen and her team for the steadfast commitment to excellence they brought to this project. John also introduced me to Eric Vrooman, a writer who served as my coach with remarkable patience and kindness.

My life is immeasurably richer for the clients with whom I am privileged to work. What I've learned from them forms the content of this book; I am especially honored by the generosity of Karl Benson and Marie Dwyer of Cooks of Crocus Hill; Gayle Fuguitt, Michelle Sullivan, Jon Overlie, and Kaia Kegley at General Mills; as well as many more individuals whose experiences informed the Clicks case study.

Each of the attributes I describe in the chapter The Futurist's Mind-set is modeled by the stories shared by Doug Cameron, Iqbal Quadir, and Clyde Prestowitz. For me, they are heroes, shining examples of the skill and fortitude required to forge change in a restless, and sometimes reckless, world.

I am indebted to the friends and colleagues who were my champions and cheerleaders. An all too abbreviated list includes Tom Neilssen, Allegra Lockstadt, Christopher Everett, Julia Fischer, Karen Gulliver, Tom Firehat, and the many incredible people who worked with me at the Push Institute.

I'm not sure what shape I, or this book, would be in if it weren't for my dear friend, and a brilliant writer, Karen Schneider. With breathtaking generosity, Karen was there for me whenever I needed my head cleared, my soul soothed, or a transition smoothed. I am a better writer and a better person for knowing her.

The commitment to this book project was supported by Paul Enck, who took up all the slack as I wrote. I admire him more than he realizes and am—forever—grateful for his kindness.