You can’t predict the future, nor can I. And yet our work is and always has been about how well we can do so. The Musk-type risk-takers either win or lose. Some manage to do both at the same time. The more timid risk-avoiders may stay comfortable for a while. Life is likely to overtake them at some stage. No life is risk-free. It’s as well to get used to handling that early on. It may not only save your life, it may save your fortune – when you have one – too.
You will have noticed that I am scrupulously careful not to use the Daily Paradox to promote either our work or anyone else’s. It is not a sales site. However I cannot ignore all the work that others, including AI, have done. So I may appear on this occasion to be breaking my promotion-free rule. Your generous indulgence will forgive me if you feel that, I know.
Sean Flynn’s book After the Algorithm attracted my attention partly because he and I worked together in the 1980s. So, a declaration of interest first: Sean Flynn and Peter Reis together assembled the hospitality division of Cerebos Pacific Ltd when I was building the Group from what my UK parent company had wrongly assumed were the Asian ashes.
We all were, and are, perpetual learners and Sean scored high on the have-a-go list. He has assembled some of his knowledge in After the Algorithm in a really useful, practical way. Most advisory books achieve the epithet ‘Useful’. I think After the Algorithm is more a ‘Usenow’ book for those facing the stormy Strait of Tomorrow’s Career. Recognising the pace of change, Sean modestly avoids predicting the future while extremely efficiently preparing us for it. As with his famous World’s Biggest Pizza, all the ingredients are in the right places so you fashion your personal pie to capture the tremendous opportunities now awaiting everyone.
If I were in my mid-years I would want this book on my desk all the time. Even at a mere 94 years old I listen to Sean’s advice for what I confidently believe is my career still to come. I think you’ll find it just as useful. Unlike the Pizza you won’t be able to eat it but just like the Pizza you will digest it with relish. Thank you, Sean. If you want to buy it click here.
The realities of any career have always been purpose achieved by opportunity. We need wisdom for the first and tools for the second. As you know I aim to help with purpose. Sean’s book is a vital tool for the second. “When you’ve made the design, get the drill.”
The career trail has never been so challenging.
That’s what makes it hair-raisingly exciting.
Please make it rewarding, too.
Good morning
John Bittleston
And no, we don’t accept money for mentioning anyone else’s work. It’s a privilege to very occasionally be able to do so.
You can reach us at [email protected].
24 June 2026
