The conclusion of the 2nd Graduation Ceremony and 5th Dies Natalis of Universitas Dian Nusantara marks the students' departure from campus, carrying pride for themselves, their university, and their parents. Throughout the challenges of academic journeys and time management, UNDIRA students have built essential skill sets related to decision-making and managerial abilities. However, beyond the campus, unforeseen circumstances await, requiring careful observation both in the professional world and within their hearts.

In addition to living in the present moment, individuals are encouraged to plan for the next ten or even twenty years. This becomes particularly beneficial in turbulent times such as the 4.0 industrial era, where developments like AI-driven research, inflation, deflation, and social recession are occurring consecutively.

It is important to note that thinking about the future is NOT the same as overthinking or social paranoia. During Universitas Dian Nusantara's Second Graduation Ceremony, Ir. Bagus Setiawan, MBA, Senior Advisor to the Board of Directors at PT PLN (Persero) and PT Energi Primer Indonesia (Persero), shared some advice on foresighting and predicting the future through his scientific speech titled, "Transforming Mindsets and Building a Visionary, Adaptive Generation for Independence in the Digital Era."

In his talk, Ir. Bagus Setiawan explained how, early in his career, he was introduced to the concept of foresighting (predicting), which he did not fully understand at first. His senior emphasized, "Foresight, foresight, and foresight," prompting him to reflect on the importance of seeing the unseen and reading the unwritten in life.

"In life, we must see what is not visible and read what is not written," said Ir. Bagus Setiawan.

Once individuals understand the external flow of life, they will naturally ask, "What do I want to become?" and "Where am I headed?" Before making plans, these fundamental questions must be addressed to inspire a sense of purpose. This idea aligns with the 21st-century Japanese philosophy of Ikigai, which means "to live" or "to wake up." Life must be lived systematically, but also requires a heart-driven motivation to answer questions like, "Why do we still wake up in the morning?" or "Why are we still breathing today?"—helping individuals to find meaning in their actions and the reasons behind them.

With the rise of trends fostering instant gratification, individuals may overlook the signs of upheaval around them. This, coupled with the social pressures faced by Generation Z, presents additional challenges. In his speech, foresighting and forecasting were highlighted as crucial tools for personal advancement. These begin with analyzing future ecosystem changes and developing strategies applicable to specific scenarios. Evaluating the data is also central to planning, as actions cannot be based on mere guesses.

"Only those who can adapt quickly and effectively will survive," he emphasized. He also urged graduates not only to have plans, but also the resolve and effort to bring them to fruition, as plans without action will change nothing. It is also important to recognize that understanding one’s emotions and passion for what they do will allow individuals to create their own bright future.