I recently came across a video that perfectly illustrates the power of a synthesised mindset in action. In the clip, a front-loader driver gets his vehicle across a canal without the tracks ever touching the water. Rather than trying to drive through the water, he uses the boom and bucket to “walk” the vehicle across, relying on balance, force, and precise control. This creative approach blends multiple concepts — engineering knowledge, spatial awareness, and creative problem-solving.

This kind of thinking is more important in the AI era than ever. While AI is great at processing data and following set rules, humans can synthesise different ideas, connect the dots, and come up with innovative solutions to real-world complex challenges. A synthesised mindset allows us to bring together knowledge from different fields, balancing technical skills with combining real-world approaches.

In the next decade, AI will become a utility like electricity, water, and gas. It’s this ability to think beyond the obvious and innovate across disciplines that will drive meaningful progress. Whether you’re navigating a canal like the driver in the video — or becoming future-ready in work and life — creativity and synthesis will be key!

I’m interested to hear: what creative approaches have you used to overcome challenges in your life?

Matt 😀