Many wonder at the contrast between Egypt's cultural and human capabilities — its prime location, wealth and history on the one hand, and its negative position among other nations on the other. At this historic time, Egypt may be ready to take a step toward a major breakthrough, if it can properly take advantage of the “moment.” Following two great revolutions, Egyptians should come together now around this new sense of awakened nationalism and capitalize on the widespread sentiment to preserve the Egyptian state, which suffered a severe existential threat under the rule of the Muslim Brotherhood. Some may ask how we can talk about a breakthrough when one sizeable faction — the Muslim Brotherhood — is outside of the political process. While it may take some time to reconcile the Muslim Brotherhood with the new direction Egypt is heading into, taking immediate actions to improve the life of Egyptians will help the Muslim Brotherhood — among others — to join the rest of the Egyptians in their march toward an Egyptian “project” with specific pillars.

Determining a clear vision to improve quality of life.

The first thing Egypt needs now is a consensus on a clear vision for progress. This should be built upon a realistic assessment of Egypt’s resources and constraints and based on deep knowledge of what works in Egypt. In the center of flashy banners and national ambitions, this vision must ultimately hold the promise of improving the quality of life for Egyptians. Having an elected civilian president at the earliest possible opportunity is needed to put this vision in place and create a broad national consensus, before implementing its components on the ground. At the same time, for a transitional period, the armed forces must continue to preserve Egypt's national security and protect its stability. It must serve as a guarantor for the democratic transition and the march toward progress, especially under the leadership of Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, who has become a national figure earning widespread popular support at a rare historical moment. Developing a long-term vision for a real Egyptian awakening project — Egypt 2030, for instance — can only gain the confidence of the people if specific and measurable national goals are clearly spelled out. These must be primarily related to improving the quality of life and making the fruits of equitable development reach poorer segments of society. They must be translated to clear milestones, so that an ordinary citizen can sense progress and development month after month and year after year, to promote confidence that Egypt is moving in the right direction.

Obtaining consensus on an "Egyptian ideology."