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Creative StudiesThe show and newsletter that audits brands re-imagining what it means to be a brand in the 21st Century. Written and produced by Geoffrey Colon, host of the Disruptive FM podcast, author of the book Disruptive Marketing (2016), executive producer of... Author: Geoffrey Colon
Creative News for the Creative Class. Hosted by Geoffrey Colon. creativestudies.substack.com Language: en Genres: Business, Marketing, Society & Culture Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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What's in store for 2026? More turbulence. Fasten your seat belt. Icebergs ahead.
Monday, 5 January, 2026
If everything is a Remix, then everything is filled with uncertainty. I’m approaching 2026 similar to 1976. Why? 1975 was a massive year of turbulence. Just like 2025. So should we assume because of turbulence things will smooth out as we get to smoother air? Not necessarily. It’s difficult to forecast anything in this day and age. Too many changes, too many system flaws, too many human and technological errors. Too many bad hot takes. But it’s good to discuss what is possible to get a better idea of the behavioral landscape. Some highlights we see on the horizon for 2026:* What’s tangible? What can we touch? In a world overwashed in digital and made up metrics, people want what’s “real” again.* There is less risk being taken and a need for managed outcomes. We’ve been seeing this since 2023. This continues through 2026.* Cost-cutting seems to be the bet on revenue model. Until there is nothing else to cut. Then what? More uncertainty.* This year will be slower than 2025. Which means if we think things are going to “get better” we’re in for some heavy future shock.* Being first to market and “FAST” is maybe not the best recipe for success now even though this is what Big Tech sells to customers. Maybe being strategic, deliberate, deep and calculated aka “SLOW” is the better opportunity in a year that looks like a quagmire and uncertain. Why? Going slow allows you to focus. Going fast feels good for dopamine levels until you’re fried.* Are we seeking monocultures again over personalized feeds because the former leads to less alienation?* 2026 will be the first year portfolio careers are finally accepted and not looked upon as “weird” by those in career recruitment. All of us have multiple email addresses now to handle the various outputs we participate in.What are your thoughts for this year? How are you feeling? What are your big bets in business? Feel free to share in the comments.Creative Studies. Creative News for the Creative Class. Join Us at CreativeStudies.News This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit creativestudies.substack.com
