Many are beginning 2025 with hopes for the future. For some, this will be a new era in not just everyday life, but for business as well. Many foresee corporations leveraging their power, and their many resources, in a positive manner. Others foresee ordinary people—sometimes called the “Fifth Estate”—focusing on everyday activities that will improve not just their own lives, but the lives of people in their communities, as well as their futures.

In a world where people have grown exhausted with traditional power structures, especially those that exist within the government, many want to steer the world in a more positive direction. The trend this year will be the embrace of smaller solutions—and while grand ideals are essential for future growth, everyday people crave the idea of participating in actions with more immediate, measurable results.

Empowering Employees in Progress

Businesses must find ways to empower employees to not only contribute to their jobs as a whole but also feel they are contributing to a better and more present future by doing so. Many have tapped into the deep passions among employees for supporting military veterans and their return to successful civilian life. Others have applauded women as they are empowered through entrepreneurship. These causes have become central and also necessary for businesses—not only because they celebrate the major victories in life, but because they give credit to those who have worked so hard to attain these things.

Seeking Shelter During Hard Times

Given the chaotic nature of the world and the things that happen within it, people naturally crave shelter, whether that be emotional or even physical. In light of recent events, many are looking to build homes, start families, and find community in places that they feel are safe. Companies, as a result, would benefit from securing locations with climate change and extreme weather in mind. 

Studies show that 80% of homeowners consider climate change when purchasing a home. As companies return many workforces to their offices, attracting and retaining talent will depend not just on the physical location of the business, but the risks associated with living and working in these environments.

Learning to Reconnect through Disconnect

The world is also experiencing a retreat from the obsession with technology. More people are becoming serious about taking a break from their smartphones and other devices, as well as limiting their digital dependence. Companies can support these endeavors by setting boundaries between office hours and personal time off. Even a simple pop-up suggesting an email can be delayed until the next day can send positive messages to employees, especially as they navigate through technological burnout.

Making Room for What Matters in Life

It is not only necessary but crucial for employers to make time for what matters to them. Many have encouraged their staff to set time aside for simple activities that reenergize them, whether that be through exercise, a new hobby, or something more personal. Leaders can also do more to help their employees harness the range of generative AI—not just for business purposes, but to extend one’s creative reach as well. Artificial intelligence as a muse can be worth the effort, and embracing the technology can help aid in people’s personal lives just as it can in business.

In the end, putting people on paths to better, more beneficial solutions can not only improve the workforce but also strengthen the companies that drive it. Helping employees recognize that while work is important, they themselves are equally important, is something that should not just be applauded but celebrated in the workforce, especially as the world, with its many challenges, continues to weave its way into everyone’s lives.