Lucas Balcells. NIKE, Senior Director, Asia, Pacific and Latin America
What can we learn from Portland, as a city, and its people?
Barcelona has the potential to become a complete city, for this it is essential that managers and civil society find the necessary harmony. But, I will direct attention to the mentality of the residents of Portland, which can be extrapolated to the USA.
Portland is extremely dynamic, always willing to go the extra mile, unafraid of change, and remarkably resilient. Here, the comfort zone has no place, and everything is carried out with a positive attitude that, for some European cultures, could seem artificial. Everything is said to be magnificent, and that is how you want to perceive it. The constant desire for improvement is admirable. Furthermore, it is a society that challenges stereotypes, where each individual can be whoever they want and be respected for it. Away from biases and focused on performance.
In the art of public speaking, “gamification” and creating a “show” of any everyday aspect are very good, offering space for European cultures to stand out by speaking less, but in a more direct, clear, concise and with great sense. It is necessary to participate in their game without losing authenticity, this gives us a differential, unique and highly valued value.
How could that mentality be transferred and applied in Barcelona?
It is easier to feel relaxed and comfortable when you experience a high quality of life and this is what could happen in Barcelona. Maintaining ambition and constantly seeking progress are key elements for your development.
The industrial revolution and the bourgeoisie’s desire for culture shaped modernist Barcelona. In the last century, the World’s Fair and the Olympic Games opened the city to the world. And now?
It is crucial that Barcelona regains its position as leader. This means adopting innovative approaches, opening up to the global arena and overcoming potential biases. Reindustrialization, attracting companies and talent require favorable environments that must be implemented urgently. Furthermore, education plays a fundamental role; We should value memorization less and give more importance to action. The ability to share diverse ideas, present them and learn to sell them must be an integral part of our education.
The potential is present. It is necessary to act, be receptive to changes, evolve, be self-critical, abandon complacency and capitalize on our strengths. Life is short, so let’s take heart and make the most of it!
