A Torrid Transformation

Our world is at a strategic inflection point. As Andy Grove explained, “a strategic inflection point is a time in the life of business when its fundamentals are about to change. That change can mean an opportunity to rise to new heights. But it may just as likely signal the beginning of the end.”

This is why I often speak of the “torrid” pace necessary. This is a new word we’ve added to the Intel vocabulary this year, “torrid.” Intel is moving rapidly with decisiveness.

It’s not a new word. Both the Oxford English Dictionary and Merriam-Websters define it as an adjective meaning:

1.??????Scorched, burned, exposed to great heat; also, intensely hot, burning, scorching.

2.??????Hot in temper or passion; ardent, enthusiastic.

Moving fast has always been important to innovation. “Torrid” takes the need for speed and transforms it into a vector with directional velocity.

The evolution of meaning fits as we grapple with the most dynamic and unpredictable global market of our lifetime. The intense heat of pressure is no reason not to be truly enthusiastic and optimistic about the opportunity ahead.

And for the lexicographical purists about to express concern, although language is defined by rules, their meanings evolve over time in the same manner as does our understanding of what is possible. After all, “computer” used to be a human job description.

Curious to hear what words you’ve found yourself “evolving” to fit our new normal?