It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Here’s to 2025 and the future.
It’s that magical time of year again — where work slows (for some), family gatherings grow (hopefully), and we reflect on what we’ve achieved. For me, Christmas isn’t just about tradition; it’s about looking forward — combining the warmth of the past with the exciting potential of the future.
As someone who lives and breathes AI, technology, and the future of work, I’ve been thinking a lot about how AI will shape not just workplaces but even our Christmas celebrations in the years to come. Which is something I was asked to talk about on BBC Radio for my last appearance of the year. Listen to that interview here.
Christmas in the Age of AI
AI isn’t just changing how we work; it’s transforming how we shop, celebrate, and connect during the holidays. Here’s how I see AI reshaping Christmas marketing and beyond:
- Personalized Gifting Made Effortless. Imagine shopping for loved ones with AI that knows their preferences better than you do — suggesting thoughtful, unique gifts based on their interests, past purchases, and even mood. It’s already happening, but it’s going to get even better.
- Hyper-Personalized Advertising. Christmas ads have always tugged at our heartstrings, but AI can now craft them just for you — combining your favorite imagery, music, and themes to create a one-of-a-kind experience. Yet, we must tread carefully with ethical concerns about data privacy. (This is going to be a BIG one next year as we enter a world of marketing without marketing… More on that next year.)
- AI-Generated Christmas Magic. From creating holiday playlists to designing personalized e-cards or even generating festive recipes, AI is becoming the ultimate holiday assistant. Who knows? By 2025, your Christmas tree decorations might even be AI-optimized for the perfect photo! (I talked about this on the radio — and it inspired me to make this for you — your very own AI Merry Christmas Moment Maker)
I really hope you enjoy the above bit of AI Christmas magic. I built it in just 30 minutes (so it’s not perfect at all….) But I wanted you to see the simple power of GenAI and using the right data in the right way. Which is why the AI asked those questions to start off with.
Just imagine if we could add in Facebook and social media preferences as well…. It could be quite something. It could then predict the perfect picture for you. And maybe even include your friends and family… Who knows…
Now, why do I mention predictions and data BECAUSE…
My Predictions for 2025
This leads me to my predictions for the coming year, where AI takes center stage in how we work and live:
- Generative AI as a Standard Tool: Like email today, AI will become an essential part of workplaces and homes, enhancing creativity and automating tedious tasks.
- Skills-Based Economy: Employers will prioritize skills over degrees, with AI platforms validating credentials.
- Hyper-Personalized Experiences: From work to holidays, tailored journeys will define how we interact with organizations and brands.
- Sustainability and Purpose: Companies will lead with green initiatives, and employees will demand purpose-driven work. (This is more of a Christmas wish than a prediction.)
- Empathy and Leadership Redefined: Leaders will focus on emotional intelligence and inclusion, with AI as their data-driven co-pilot.
Feel you or your organisation maybe aren’t quite ready for all this?
Take the AIMS and find out where you stand.
AIMS is the Artificial Intelligence Maturity Survey which I have built with ScoreApp to help people see which level they and their organisations are at when it comes to AI integration.
It’s totally free to use and give you a report on what you should do next.
As my gift to you.
Another Gift for You
As a thank-you for being part of my journey, I’m offering my upcoming book free to newsletter subscribers like you. “How to Survive and Thrive in 2025” launches next year at £29.99, but you can get on the list for it for FREE.
Click here — if you’ve been good this year.
And you are on the NICE list. (Yes, you have, and yes you are!)
Along with the book, you’ll get exclusive extras: five podcasts and even an AI adviser tool to help you navigate the future.
Signing Off
So, as you wrap up your year and perhaps a few presents, I hope you’ll take a moment to think about the incredible opportunities ahead. The blend of tradition and technology isn’t something to fear — it’s something to embrace.
Merry Christmas, everyone.
Remember to have a go on the AI Christmas Moment Maker.
Here’s to a 2025 full of innovation, connection, and a bit of magic.
Also inspired by the interview on BBC Radio Scotland about Christmas and AI. Here’s a fun ChatGPT prompt you can use.
Copy and paste this into your AI.
“Based on what you know about me, pick 3 gifts aligned with my interests. Explain why, and picture these gifts beautifully arranged under a Christmas tree with ‘Merry Christmas’ written above!”
Please feel free to steal this idea.
And spread some festive cheer… Tag me in too.
If you want to at @dansodergren. Merry Christmas to you 😁
The gifts my #AI picked for me are scarily accurate. Spooky.
