Three Horizons
Three Horizons (3H) is a deceptively simple framework developed by some of the world’s leading systems thinkers. It helps us connect with our agency through complex, uncertain times and in that sense is a perfect guide for Leading Through Storms.
One of the greatest difficulties in creating change is that there are often groups holding different visions who compete against each other for attention and resources. There are few mechanisms that are able to nurture understanding between these different groups, while allowing them to see they can all collaborate and contribute to future success.
Offering a shared language for speaking about current challenges, future visions, and possible pathways forward, Three Horizons makes systems transformation accessible and helps to put everyone in the picture.
Alongside the ‘three lines on a page’ framework, the success of Three Horizons depends on how we show up as leaders: creating space for all voices to be heard, listening deeply, developing generative relationships, committing to radical collaboration.
At Leading Through Storms we work with Three Horizons while also supporting the development of vital leadership practices along our Four Pathways to Spirited Leadership.
Three Horizons: The Three Voices
An Introduction to Three Horizons
Horizon 1 (H1) represents the dominant system, or business as usual. For example, in the case of transport, it would be the internal combustion engine. While once upon a time the motor engine represented a revolution (compared with horse-drawn vehicles), in a carbon-constrained world it is no longer fit for purpose.
Horizon 2 (H2) represents the entrepreneurs who recognize that changes are needed, but seek to develop them in the context of the current system. This is the area of transition. At best, innovations, such as the hybrid vehicle, can act as a bridge to Horizon 3, but they can also be co-opted by those supporting business as usual to prevent the emergence of more radical solutions.
Horizon 3 (H3) represents the vision we’re working towards, with radical innovations that can restructure entire systems. They often develop at the fringe, and then move into the mainstream when there is a recognition that the status quo can no longer be sustained. Regarding the transport system, this would be represented by the electrification of all forms of transport.
We highly recommend Bill Sharpe’s book Three Horizons: The Patterning of Hope for anyone interested to learn more . And if you’d like to explore how Three Horizons might help you have better conversations about the future, email kirstin@leadingthroughstorms.org or book a 30 minute conversation with James or Kirstin.
From time to time, we run programmes shaped around the Three Horizons framework. Please check back, or sign up to our mailing list to be notified about our upcoming ‘Patterning of Hope’ programmes. You can learn more about The Patterning of Hope programmes here.
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