2021 Predictions

If 2020 has taught us anything, it’s that guessing what the world will look like in 5 days or 5 months is difficult and at times futile. Despite this, we find value in setting intentions and moving forward with hope and optimism while maintaining the flexibility to adapt to changing circumstances - so here are Erika’s predictions, sprinkled in with hopes and wishes for 2021.

Prediction #1: 2020 will inspire further change

2020 saw major upheavals on many fronts, ranging from to education, work, politics and political participation, social justice, public health realities, environment, freedom of movement, and the state of the global and local economies - all of which will likely have long-term implications. These changes showed us that pre-existing norms could be changed in the right set of circumstances.

Prediction #2: Rest will be prioritised

Let’s make 2021 a year for rest and rejuvenation. Let’s normalise taking time to heal and rebuild from all the storms we weathered in 2020. It’s going to take time to recover from the grief and loss experienced, and these traumas shouldn’t be ignored. Heal at your own pace, and feel secure in seeking whatever assistance you need to process your feelings. 

Prediction #3: Politics and Business will look different

We’re slowly seeing parliaments, cabinets and even brands’ Instagram grids attempting to be inclusive, but we’ve yet to reach a stage where these spaces reflect the realities we see in our communities. There’s still a long journey ahead until true, meaningful representation is realised; and we’ll pay close attention to how these spaces develop and progress. Programs like Not too Young to Run and Raise Our Voices Australia give me hope that these goals are not out of reach.

2020 showed us that there is an appetite for change, and movements and causes that were considered fringe are being addressed in mainstream media. Via social media, we’re witnessing more people with lived experience advocating, educating and creating change locally and globally outside of formal systems and structures. Sharon Chuter’s Pull Up For Change is an incredible US case study of a social-media-based direct action movement that has gained mainstream attention and tangible results focused on creating change from the inside out. It’s not a complete solution, nor does it address all the issues present in addressing workplace inequality, but it’s a step in increasing transparency. It has inspired others to replicate this model in other regions, you can find Pull Up For Change Australia’s Instagram account here.   

Prediction #4: Renewed focus on relationships

We live in a capitalistic society that glorifies being overworked which isn’t sustainable or healthy. In 2021, I foresee people placing emphasis on enjoying their downtime with their loved ones (family, friends, pets, plants) and connecting with Prediction #2, resting and reinvesting in themselves during their time off, pacing themselves. 

I predict that many of our interpersonal dynamics will change. Many of us have been physically apart from those we cherish, making the time that we do spend together more special. We’ve learned to connect via alternative means amidst the pandemic and that’s likely to continue. Technology will continue to be used to improve accessibility, providing options for virtual workshops and models for remote work and virtual teams will gain further acceptance and adoption across sectors where they were previously overlooked. 

Prediction #5: Enjoying ‘the now’

People in 2021 will reassess their end goals, and focus on enjoying what they have built thus far, as we’ve been reminded that tomorrow is not promised to us. I foresee travel being restructured, and this video essay, ‘Why Travel Will Never Look the Same’ by Johnny Harris of Bright Trip offers a thoughtful perspective on what that might appear like. 

There’s so much more that could be said about what 2021 may hold for us, so if you have your own 2021 predictions, share them with us - we’d love to hear them! Tag @wearethemainstream on your social media platform of choice and fill us in on what you think 2021 will bring! 

Want to be a part of their annual event? Head to the ticket link and register for the International Women’s Day celebration of the year.