No matter what the pollsters, pundits and prognosticators may claim, no one can accurately predict all that is going to happen in the next 365 days. Even our best, most informed forecasts are just educated guesses. There are too many variables, too many unknowns, to be able to project with any degree of accuracy what lies ahead for us, individually and in the world as a whole.
Changes in our society have not only increased in terms of speed and intensity, but also in their unpredictability. Who would have predicted the dramatic shifts and jolts the economy has undergone in the past year? Doing business in this volatile environment is what author Michael Annison has termed, “Managing the Whirlwind.” How can anyone succeed when the future is so uncertain?
The Bible suggests three timeless principles to help in facing your future:
1. INCLUDE GOD IN YOUR GOAL-SETTING: frankly, it is foolish to make plans without consulting God first. He is the only one who truly does know the future – and He is eager to guide you through it. The Bible says, “We may make our plans, but God has the last word” (Proverbs 16:1). In other words, planning without praying is presumption. Start by praying, “God, what do YOU want to do in me and through me today, this week, this month, this year?”
2. LIVE ONE DAY AT A TIME: while you can plan for tomorrow, you can’t live it until it arrives. Most people spend so much of their time regretting the past and worrying about the future, they have no time to enjoy today! Someone once made the witty observation, “Life is what happens to you while you are making other plans.”
Decide to make the most of each moment of every day. Live life to its fullest, without agonizing over what will or will not happen tomorrow, or next week, or next month. Jesus said, “Don’t be anxious about tomorrow – God will take care of your tomorrows. Live one day at a time” (Matthew 6:34).
3. DO NOT PROCRASTINATE – DO IT NOW! : the Bible counsels us, “Don’t boast about what you’re going to do tomorrow, for you don’t know what a day may bring forth” (Proverbs 27:1). Procrastinating is a subtle trap. It wastes today by postponing things until tomorrow. You promise yourself that you will do it “one of these days.” But “one of these days” too often turns into “none of these days.”
What did you plan to get done over the past six months that you have failed to do? When do you intend to start working on it? “Do not withhold good from those who deserve it, when it is in your power to act. Don’t say to your neighbor, ‘Come back later; I’ll give it tomorrow’ when you NOW have it with you” (Proverbs 3:27-28). In other words, DO IT NOW!
Consider these words of assurance from God: “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope…You will find me when you seek me, if you look for me in earnest” (Jeremiah 29:11, 13).
Reflection questions
1. How much validity to you put in forecasts and predictions made by so-called “experts” these days? Has your attitude toward such projections changed much over the past 12 months?
2. Does the ever-escalating pace at which change is taking place in our world concern you? Why or why not?
3. Dr. Warren suggests including God in goal-setting. What would be the value – if any – of doing that, in your opinion?
4. Why does it seem so difficult to live life one day at a time? How successful are you at doing that?
If you have a Bible, consider these other passages that deal with this topic: Psalm 37:4-5; Proverbs 3:5-6; Matthew 6:6-8, 25-33; James 1:22-25, 4:13-17
Encarando o futuro com confiança
por Rick Warren
Apesar do que reivindicam pesquisadores, autoridades e vaticinadores, ninguém pode prever com exatidão o que vai acontecer nos próximos 365 dias. Nossos melhores e mais bem informados prognósticos não passam de suposições. Existem variáveis e incógnitas demais para que seja possível fazer projeções exatas do que jaz adiante de nós, na esfera pessoal e no mundo em geral.
As mudanças em nossa sociedade aumentaram não apenas em velocidade e intensidade, mas em imprevisibilidade. Quem poderia ter previsto as mudanças dramáticas que a economia enfrentou no ano passado? Fazer negócios nesse ambiente de volatilidade transformou-se no que Michael Annison rotulou de “controlar um furacão”. Como alguém pode ser bem-sucedido quando o futuro é tão incerto? A Bíblia sugere alguns princípios eternos que ajudam a encarar o futuro:
1 – Inclua Deus ao estabelecer metas: francamente, é muito tolo fazer planos sem antes consultar Deus. Ele é o único que verdadeiramente conhece o futuro e está disposto a guiar-nos rumo a ele. A Bíblia diz: “Nós fazemos nossos planos, mas Deus tem a última palavra” (Provérbios 16.1, tradução livre). Em outras palavras, planejar sem orar é presunção. Comece orando: “Deus, o que o Senhor quer fazer em mim e através de mim neste dia, nesta semana, neste mês, neste ano?”
2 – Viva um dia de cada vez: embora devamos planejar o amanhã, não podemos viver o dia que está por vir antes que ele chegue. Muitos gastam tanto tempo lamentando o passado e preocupados com o futuro, que não lhes sobra tempo para desfrutar o hoje! Alguém fez esta espirituosa observação:“Vida é o que acontece enquanto você está ocupado fazendo outros planos”.
Decida tirar o máximo de cada momento de cada dia. Viva a vida em sua plenitude, sem afligir-se com o que vai ou não acontecer amanhã, na próxima semana ou mês. Jesus disse:“Não fique ansioso com o amanhã; Deus cuidará de seus amanhãs. Viva um dia de cada vez” (Mateus 6.34, tradução livre).
3 – Não adie ― faça o que tem que ser feito agora! A Bíblia aconselha:“Não se gabe do dia de amanhã, pois você não sabe o que este ou aquele dia poderá trazer” (Provérbios 27.1). Procrastinação é uma armadilha sutil. Ela desperdiça o hoje adiando tudo para amanhã. Promete fazer o que precisa “um dia destes”. Mas “um dia destes” geralmente acaba sendo “dia nenhum”.
O que você planejou fazer nos últimos seis meses e que não foi feito? Quando pretende começar a trabalhar nisso? “Quanto lhe for possível, não deixe de fazer o bem a quem dele precisa. Não diga ao seu próximo: ‘Volte amanhã e eu lhe darei algo’, se pode ajudá-lo hoje” (Provérbios 3.27-28). Em outras palavras, aja agora!
Medite sobre estas palavras de confiança enviadas por Deus: “’Porque sou Eu que conheço os planos que tenho para vocês’, diz o Senhor, ‘planos de fazê-los prosperar e não de lhes causar dano, planos de dar-lhes esperança e um futuro. Vocês Me procurarão e Me acharão quando Me procurarem de todo o coração” (Jeremias 29.11,13).
Questões para reflexão
1. Você acha válidas as previsões dos “experts” atuais? Sua atitude em relação a essas projeções se alterou no último ano?
2. O ritmo acelerado em que as mudanças estão ocorrendo em nosso mundo o preocupa? Por que?
3. O autor sugere incluir Deus no estabelecimento de metas. Em sua opinião, qual o valor de fazer isso?
4. Por que é tão difícil viver um dia de cada vez? Você tem conseguido fazer isso?
Desejando considerar outras passagens da Bíblia relacionadas ao tema, sugerimos: Salmos 37.4-6; Provérbios 3.5-6; Tiago 4.13-17.
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 17:01
Bi-lingual response…
O Deni, você começou uma conversa muito importante. Cada comentário contribuiu sabedoria. O tema que que parece muito importante é uma perspectiva positiva nos ajudará todo procurar as oportunidades.
Deni has started a very important discussion. Every comment has a common theme. Keep a positive attitude and seek out the opportunities and seize them.
Great discussions and thank you all.
Pardon my poor Portuguese
Posted by Fred Held from Linked Strategies
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 17:00
Change is constant
Nothing stays the same, Change is constant. The ability to adapt to this change is what separates companies and opportunities. Strong leadership sees opportunity in Un-certain times.
Posted by John Feeney from Linked Strategies
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 17:00
Being flexible
Deni, your question is, over what milestone should our options be defined… and decisions made (ourselves, colleagues and subordinates).
Let me use an sailing analogy please. When sailing over the horizon, it is much easier to make a 2 degree adjustment to your tiller, every so often. Versus, making a 6 degree adjustment, trying to compensate all at once.
To achieve this, each industry has it’s own methodology and metrics. I find being flexible, combined with historical data (stats), to be the most effective. Adjusting as I go, instead of having to make large sweeping changes. The larger defining milestones, have to do with growth.The others are day-to-day affairs of business.
Posted by Eric Purviance from Linked Strategies
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 17:00
São Mateus
Sim, ha muitas variaveis.
Ja que o assunto foi direcionado para o plano metafisico, fico com a máxima de Jesus no evangelho de S. Mateus – “Qual homem que antes de construir uma torre, não planeja antes os seus custos?”.
Até lá, o planejamento é referenciado…
Posted by Saulo Martins from Ética – Profissionais Éticos
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:59
Fé
Me ajude Deni, a única coisa que me vem a cabeça é Fé. Mas se for isso, o nosso papo é bem mais comprido, pois a Fé para mim… é uma palavra muito maior do que nossas pequenas mentes podem alcançar. Muito profundo! (rs)
Abração,
Valdir Cinquini.
Posted by Valdir Cinquini from Altamidia – Comunicação Digital Presencial
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:59
Yes we can!
Dear Deni,
You are so right that things are dramatic different; the stakes are higher; the speed and intensity increased, but on so many fronts we are proving we can do many things in ways we never dreamed.
One of the great turning points in my own belief that Yes we can! (before we saw it here with the election of President Obama
began with an amazing experiment in visionary leadership, collective will, and dialogue. It took place with an unlikely combo of UN Habitat, Govt of Canada, IBM and 39,000 people from 158 countries from every walk of life. They achieved the unprecedented in 72 hours together. We did a visual self-learning exhibit to document this moment in history at the Global Dialogue Center:
http://www.globaldialoguecenter.com/habitatjam .
It proved to me that the fastest way to innovation was through our collective knowledge and partnership at all levels of business and society.
Best…
Debbe
Posted by Debbe Kennedy from Leadership Think Tank
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:59
Milestone
If I understand the question, my reply is this; The true milestone is, the only milestone is the decision to go forth with the “enterprise”. You have hopefully, at this point, researched, budgeted, made the decision to go forward and planned accordingly. At this point, in my humbled opinion, is where you have “pulled on your uniform” and are ready to “get in the game”. No looking back, adjust? Yes. But, your research and planning should have given you the confidence to move forward, and this you should not allow to be shaken……stay strong and confident. This where the growth (if not already attained) begins and continues, and pardon the usage again, but this is where the transformation from boy to Man begins. Anyone can “talk a good game”, it is those that perform (not necessarily at an “A” level, you cant always expect to start at an “A” level, but practice makes perfect, and there is no substitute for practice) that will know “the truth”. “The truth” comes from doing…not talking about doing. “Defining Options”, again in my opinion, is defined only in who and how your “vendors” perform…your idea or venture should be set in stone……how you go about obtaining that “Dream” is managing your outside vendors (advertisers, website builders, manufacturers, PR, warehousing, distribution, etc….) to get YOUR desired results. With proper planning and proper time frames (which can be the most difficult to do) you should be able to interview your potential vendors correctly and remind them how “you do business” (this should be done in the first month of hiring your vendor(s)……….during the vendor interview process, you willl find that vendors will “kiss your butt” to get your business, then fall into a lazier attitude after they feel as though they have “locked you in”…manage them properly. If you or know someone that is a Small Business Start-Up and want more consulting, add me to your contacts. My Company is Striped Velour, and we are a Small Business / Start-Up consulting firm. We are very reasonable because we insist that “you do the work”….there is no more valuable lesson. But, we can point you in the correct direction, give priceless advise and use a plethora of great contacts for you to use.
My two cents,
Steve
Posted by Steve Ulrich from Social Think Tank
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:58
Follow the energy
Follow the energy – observe the direction where the options are most beneficial to you and easy to take. Treat it like sailing a boat – it’s easier to go with the wind and tide than against it. As long as you are not choosing to harm yourself, you’ll be headed where you want to go.
Nothing and no one can harm you unless you choose to allow it.
Jim
Posted by James Reyes-Picknell from Worldwide Management Consultants
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:58
Thanks…
When I read your question, my mind went right to what the article speaks about! Thanks for sharing this wonderful article here for others to find. Hope lots read it and take it to heart (& soul).
Posted by Dawn Drury from Google Group
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:58
Two advices
I have not always been successful in everything I have done, but I have tried to learn equally from my failures as well as my successes… I’ve tried most everything at least once. If there is a thread of advice I could give you, it is this…
1) We cannot create our own fate, but we can make our own decisions.
You cannot see with absolute certainty what’s around every corner, but you can make smart, educated decisions, warning you of possible sharp objects ahead. A wise CEO once told me, it’s not about making every decision right, it’s about avoiding the stupid ones.
2) Never give up. Stay focused on your target, but as was noted, adapt your stride to the race being run.
I think the hardest thing for anyone to accept, is running a race as hard as you can, but still did not win. Do your best, leave it all on the field and you’ll never walk away with regret. You can take being defeated, but not regret.
I wish you the Best…
Posted by Eric Purviance from Linked Strategies
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:57
Be certain
You can be certain of yourself and what you are williing to do to get what you know you want.
Posted by William Huey, MBA, CES(R) from California State University, East Bay Alumni
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:57
Two points…
Two points…
The first and most important is that only the things you control matter. Blaming your failures on what you don’t control means there is no control whatsoever and this is not the case. The only “WHYs” for something happening are things you control.
A great approach to making things happen is to simply “observe” and “handle” in each successive moment in time. Observe of course is to watch and see, handle means to take action appropriate to what is observed.
When you do this it is important not to “remember” look back or use the past and additionally not to “anticipate” or look forward and predict or assume the future — both of these actions reduce your ability to handle in present time what is observed.
Hope this helps.
Posted by Flyn Penoyer from Worldwide Management Consultants
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:56
Attitude is key
Attitude is key. This is a great time to think outside the box. I found a company with a proven track record and no risk. That is why I can be comfortable and confident sharing it with family, friends, and future partners!
Posted by Natalie Boecker from On Startups – The Community For Entrepreneurs
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:56
I take on Marcus’ point below and yes he is right but you have to look at the whole picture or should we say take a holistic approach or view…..after all Bernard Maydov was an exceptional communicator was he not!…..Look where he left alot of people!
Posted by Darren Carter from On Startups – The Community For Entrepreneurs
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:56
Opportunity is all around
Stop dwelling on what will be – nobody knows. Focus on your own success. Opportunity is all around. Waiting for the sky to fall is taking your eye off the positive. Negative attracts negatives.
I’ve been on my own for 25 years or more and have never been secure. BUT, I love what I do, and leave the bad economy to everyone else.
Posted by ED ROACH from eMarketing Association Network
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:55
Bi-lingual response…
Uncertainty and mystery are energies of life. Don’t let them scare you unduly, for they keep boredom at bay and spark creativity.
A incerteza e mistério são energias de vida. Não os deixe espantá-lo impropriamente, para eles mantem enfado em baía e criatividade de faísca.
May you find your way in this uncertain world. May fortune find you in your travels. May you recognize the problems you meet traveling are opportunities for you to grasp.
Possa-o achar sua maneira neste mundo incerto. Possa achado de fortuna você em suas viagens. Possa-o reconhecer que os problemas que você encontra em suas viagens são oportunidades você agarrar.
A boa sorte em sua busca de felicidade.
Posted by Fred Held from Linked Strategies
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:55
Willow tree or great oak
Craig’s response sums it up. Change or the world passes you by and basically leaves you in the dust. While not always easy, embracing change helps us to adapt. Better to be like the willow tree and bend in the breeze, than the great oak that was uprooted in a storm. (not sure who to attribute that to – but I like it.)
Posted by Debra Lawrence from Linked Strategies
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:54
Success is what you are
Deni, great input – and you are so right! You got me thinking too – those who really succeed are those who have a passion for what they do. It’s not those who just work hard it to get something else.
Live your passion. You’ll live more in the moment that way. Success will happen if it happens. What is success? Each of us has our own definition. If it is someone with a passion, success is probably tied to the passion, not the result. Success is what you are, not what you achieve in that case.
Thanks for the link.
Jim
Posted by James Reyes-Picknell from Worldwide Management Consultants
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:54
My two cents
That’s like training and practicing Futbol and then standing on the sidelines and not participating because it isn’t certain that you will score or not be injured etc…. I say “Get in the Game” no matter what, play you best and leave it all on the field, this way you can leave with no regrets. Get out there and DO something, not talk about doing something, or plan on doing something….DO SOMETHING. Spend your energy on what you CAN do, not whats in your way, or potentially in your way. This is what separates the Men from the boys.
My two cents
Steve
Posted by Steve Ulrich from Social Think Tank
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:54
Be aware
Nothing has to be a surprise once you prepare for it. Economic downturn is an occurrence event; in fact if you study history, trends and analyses, you’ll actually see that different events happened periodically. So to avoid the uncertainties on any endeavor: you need to educate yourself, be aware of future shock, have a clear road map and give yourself enough liberty just in case deviations arise during your journey toward success.
Posted by Jeanel Simon from On Startups – The Community For Entrepreneurs
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:53
Successful business is born in times like these!
Posted by Fred Watson from On Startups – The Community For Entrepreneurs
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:53
There is no such thing as a sure thing
All the comments have merit. There is no such thing as a sure thing. We have lived through economic times that have provided us the opportunity to latch on to the “illusion” that our business will be a success. For my business the bottom line is this. If I can not articulate to my potential clients then act in a manner that provides a benefit I will not have a thriving, growing ,successful and prosperous business. We all act upon a perceived benefit. If we as business owners do not have a clear understanding of who we are how can we convey that to others? If you do not believe in yourself why would anyone else?
Posted by Marcus Padulchick ND from On Startups – The Community For Entrepreneurs
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:52
Dont listen to pundits
All the time is uncertain, when the economies were riding high it should have been uncertain. Opportunities are always available to those prepare to “cease the day”, yes you may fail a few times, but that does not mean you are a failure it means the timing etc was not right for you.
Someone once said to me you need to be lucky to be successful, I believe Luck comes from a combination of working smart, increasing your knowledge, research, persistance and above all having an open mind. Im still waiting for my success but the key thing is Im still in the game.
p.s. dont listen to pundits do your own research, follow the 10 basic principles of common sense business management/analysis;
1. Is there a market?
2. Is the pricing structure/architecture right?
3. Management, track record etc.
4. Is it sustainable?
5. Debt profile
6. Product quality and placement
7. Profit margins
8. Perform your SWAT analysis
9. Multiple stream your business/diversify – Ask yourself what would you or your company do if your current product or service became obsolete?
10. Balance your emotion and intellect!
Posted by Darren Carter from On Startups – The Community For Entrepreneurs
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:52
Fé ou garra??
Caio,
não é acreditar no pior
é fazer de tudo para que o resultado seja obtido.
Talvez não seja questão de fé, mas de garra!
(assim como numa partida de futebol, torcedor tem fé, mas jogador tem que suar a camisa, ter garra, e o tecnico tem que ter visão, plano, insumos, flexibilidade, foco…)
Posted by Saulo Martins from Ética – Profissionais Éticos
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:52
Move forward
The future has, is and always will be “uncertain”. It is what we choose to make it. Remaining paralyzed in fear over what “might be” is not what I’d call an expansive approach to life. Make some choices – move forward. If you don’t like the results you get, you can always choose again and again…
Nothing and no one can harm you unless you choose to allow it.
Jim
Posted by James Reyes-Picknell from Worldwide Management Consultants
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:51
Podemos acreditar o que quisermos a respeito de uma coisa tão incerta quanto o futuro. E por que gastaríamos nossa energia criadora, nossa fé, acreditando no pior? Por favor não respondam isto
Muito bom Deni!
Abs
Posted by Caio Santos from Ética – Profissionais Éticos
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:51
Receita
A receita para vencer envolve -
Um bom planejamento
Recursos para vencer adversidades previstas
Flexibilidade para vencer adversidades imprevistas
Ter planos B e C.
E discernimento para saber a hora de mudar o foco.
E logico, reconhecer que até mesmo este planejamento pode ser alterado ou interrompido.
Posted by Saulo Martins from Ética – Profissionais Éticos
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:51
Arm yourself and go forth
Love Craig’s repsonse. I suggest you read some history books. you will find our period is pretty calm in comparison.
There are never any guarantees, no one has ever had a crystal ball. Success is internal and it is different for every person, even those in the exact same profession. Know yourself and trust yourself. Don’t listen to the external noise. Arm yourself with knowledge and go forth.
Posted by Theresa Hinton from Linked Strategies
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:50
Re-do things
Here’s a key concept, recently offered by guru Robert Kiyosaki. Those who wait for a return to prior conditions are dead meat – his idea, my language. This is a new marketplace, with new metrics, new concerns, new options, new opportuniities. I’m a business coach, and I work with about 25 entrepreneurs each month. A few haven’t had to change the way they do business. Another few refused to change, and they’re gone! Most, however, discovering lemons, are making lemonade!
Charles DeGaulle commented: “The road to greatness runs through uncertainty.” In uncertain times, entrepreneurs are at their best. We’re challenged to re-vision, change, re-formulate, learn new ideas, abandon old practices. Many people can’t do that.
If you can, this can be a great time for you.
And if you’d like help, look me up.
Best,
Craig Jennings
Posted by Craig Jennings from Linked Strategies
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:50
Dan Kennedy
You need to not only read Dan Kennedy’s books but join one of his chapters.
Posted by Mary Beth Yannessa from Leadership Think Tank
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:50
Contacts…
Build a strong network. Contacts are key. Success isn’t about forecasting as much as it is about relationship building.
Posted by Jeanmarie Loria from Success Networking
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:50
Communication
Let’s assume for a moment that your audience here on LinkedIn is here because they are serious about succeeding in any economy and they already realize that lying, wickedness, drunkennes, lewdness, covetousness and all manner of eveil and pride fall far outside a successful business model for any rational business leader….. in any contintent or any planet! (Get a grip on yourself Eli)
Then your success as a company simply relies on your ability to engage your customers and your employees. If you run your business wisely, then, you are already prepared for the whirlwind of effect on your customers. Business is up and business is down. That’s life.
However, times like these present unique opportunities to engage your most valuable resource, which is your employees. Engage them to create meaning out of the challenges currently at hand. Refine your business model, improve your core efficiencies, but, never forget that as an employer your most valuable asset is your employees and you must enlist them to use this time to become the very best you can be as a company. Let your employees know their contributions are more important than ever and get everyone in the company pulling in the same direction.
In any environment, engaging people is done through communication. Communication is best done in the the native language of your audience. “Bible Speak” has many great business principles, however, alienates all but a narrow audience.
Posted by Mark Allen from Worldwide Management Consultants
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:49
Sorte??
Sergio, concordo com você nos dois primeiros itens, mas acredito que “sorte” é peça montada em nosso sub-consciente. Se pedirmos o que queremos acreditando no que pedimos, a “sorte” ou as energias do nosso pedido farão o resto!
Acredito que o terceiro item, é Transparencia, Verdade. Esse sim, é de nossa intençao e postura, é intocável, indiscutível, e nos mantem sempre dispostos a cumprir os itens A e B de sua citação.
Abração,
Valdir Cinquini – valdir@altamidia.com.br – http://www.altamidia.com.br
Posted by Valdir Cinquini from Altamidia – Comunicação Digital Presencial
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:49
3 variáveis
Sucesso duradouro é a somatória de 3 variáveis:
a) Competência;
b) Trabalho duro;
c) Sorte (ou, se preferirem, oportuna sequência/conjunção de eventos favoráveis).
Obs.: Este último item, qdo realmente abundante dispensa, tranquilamente, os outros dois!
Posted by Sergio Fanton from Altamidia – Comunicação Digital Presencial
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:49
The future is in our hands…
Quite true. However, somethings don’t change. Like the way man lives, and eats, and sleeps and creates… Of all the things that have been said about our present condition, there is one thing that none can deny… that this was Man-made. Hence, the prognosis that the solutions will also necessarily have to be man-made. Wrong-doers got ahead of regulators, law-enforcers and governments, bringing gigantic ecosystmes to ruin.
It is up to you and me to think up solutions and press to make them happen. The future is in our hands…
Posted by Indranil Deb from Social Think Tank
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:48
Any more or less uncertain…
Deni, I’m sorry I can’t respond in Portugues but I don’t believe things are any more or less uncertain than they ever have been. Just the noise. The crying press and govt officials would like to make you think that opportunity is dead BUT In times like these opportunity is at its greatest level. The companies that have been commanded by poor managers will start to fold and innovative companies and programs can be there to take advantage of this… Success is possible if not easier to achieve during this time for those that want to take advantage of it.
Posted by Douglas Story from Linked Strategies
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:48
How to manage integrity
OK if integrity is the thing … and I certainly don’t disagree with you. How do you measure it, monitor it and manage it? That, I believe, is the challenge of the BI Professional in the scenario you describe.
Posted by Wayne Kurtz from Business Intelligence Professionals
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:48
Tudo é imprevisível
Deni Belotti, lendo este texto por um momento cheguei a tal conclusão – antecipando que de repente, pode ser uma conclusão momentanea, ja que tudo esta se tornando imprevisivel =). Acredito que com tantos rastros que são deixados hoje nas operações, tenho o entendimento que cada vez mais tudo se torna muito previsivel.Tenho acompanhado as ações de empresas como a Google, que contribui muito para isto, eis aqui a www, tudo muito próximo e mais uma vez: cheio de rastros.
Acredito que quem estava diretamente envolvido nos acontecimentos que a economia enfrentou, podia sim, prever.O problema muitas vezes esta em mudar o que já esta previsto (ação e reação).Agora se pensarmos na minha esfera de acessos e atuação: Eu não poderia prever!
Acho que alguém pode ser bem-sucedido fazendo o que gosta, estando em paz consigo mesmo, respeitando o próximo, tirando férias, dormindo bem, bebendo bastante água, malhando, estudando, saindo para uma baladinha, namorando, fazendo sexo, eu prefiro batida de maracujá, mas, enfim, bebendo de vez em quando …. enfim, vivendo bem o presente.
Abraços à todos.
Lincoln Campos
Posted by Lincoln Campos
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:47
Ser bom hoje
Acho que as pessoas em geral estão desconectadas com o seu ser (ou Deus dentro delas) então o o ego tem tomado conta de seus pensamentos, sentimentos e ações fazendo-as arrogantes e egoístas. O mundo que vivemos hoje é reflexo do que somos e enquanto não começarmos a ser seres humanos melhores, seguindo os ensinamentos de Deus, não chegaremos a lugar algum.
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:47
“um dia de cada vez…”
O lema dos Alcólicos Anônimos serve para todos nós, e como você explicou, é mandamento de Deus… Realmente para mim as vezes é difícil viver assim, pensando no que Deus tem pra mim hoje, logo quando vejo, meus pensamentos estão viajando nas possibiliades do futuro. O que me ajudou a viver o hoje foi perceber quando esses pensamentos surgem e quando eles atrapalham o meu dia-a-dia, então, comecei a passá-los para materiais concretos como recados e textos, até mesmo músicas, isso me ajudou a diminuir a ansiedade de resolver o que vai acontecer amanhã… Mas sempre devo buscar em Deus, minha fonte, sustento emocional e confiar que só Ele sabe o que acontece cada minuto seguinte.
Que consigamos serguir “um dia de cada vez…”.
Parabéns pelo texto! Abraços, Evelize.
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:47
Modify the circumstances
Being in business by definition is an uncertain reality. Success is measured by both our ability to handle the ambiguity of uncertain and/or create our own version of the future. I genuinely believe that most real leaders would rather confront uncertainty than to be told for sure [certainty] what the future holds. The reason is that confidence and certainty come from the reliability that a given set of circumstance have extremely high probabilities of occurrence. The problem is that the circumstances may or may not favor us and you are equally able to fail as you are succeed.
My point is that in general, most successful businesses would rather be able to aggressively modify the circumstances in a dynamic market place to their advantage than to be locked into events they can’t change.
Posted by Steven Brown from eMarketing Association Network
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:46
Tomorrow
Simple, the people who are successful rarely rely on the opinions of others, the general state of any economics and create value-based products, services and organizations powerfully. The future is always uncertain even in “good” times. Do you know exactly what will happen to you tomorrow?
Posted by Paul Bortell, III – V.P. Business Development at Applied Innovation Alliance, LLC
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:46
Uncertain
The future has always been uncertain – even for psychics. The recent world events are just reminding us of this.
Posted by Rosemary Breen from On Startups – The Community For Entrepreneurs
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:46
Be a blessing
Define what success means to you personally before you start looking at the world as a whole. Is it a problem or a challenge? Meeting halfway gets you more than half way there because finishing can be just as hard as starting.
Keeping your priorities clear and in order is the beginning the first step toward being satisfied with where you are and what you have. what is your purpose and life goals. Keep it simple.
mine are simple:
1. Do some good
2. make some money
3. have some fun.
The Lord has blessed me and allowed me to be a blessing to others. That is success to me.
Posted by Francine DiFilippo Kent, Ph. D. – from Innovative Marketing, PR, Sales, Word-of-Mouth & Buzz Innovators
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:45
Fuel for the fire…
Risk Management is a familiar area to us all. The previous comments illustrate the array of approaches available. As a spirit led person, relying on Biblical principles, I have submitted to guidance from above. Trusting in the directions given, provides a sense of certainty in the eventual outcome and a peace during the process. However all of the recommendations cited, when pulled together, show that entrepreneurs have the right outlook during times of uncertainty. We are motivated by a vision (or should be) and the money aspect is secondary. So uncertainty-unpredictability are merely fuel for the fire as we forge ahead. Now the rest of the world is experiencing what we experience all the time.
Posted by Judith M. Chapman-Ward from On Startups – The Community For Entrepreneurs
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:45
The optimist
If the future was so predictable then everyone would be rich, that what makes it so much fun!
Entrepreneurs or whatever you want to call them need to shape the future as they see fit. Everyone has their own perception of reality and the “perfect world” which is why it is so “uncertain” to everyone else. You need a “vision” of what you want the future to look 10 years from now. Without a vision or clear sense of what you want to accomplish, then yes there is a lot of uncertainty, but… If you set goals and milestones, then the future actually looks kind of bright on the horizon.
Just trying to be the optimist
Posted by Trace Cohen from On Startups – The Community For Entrepreneurs
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:44
Solid foundation
Why is our future so uncertain? What happened? What is responsible? Wasn’t it lack of responsibility, integrity, honesty, accountability, diligence, and all that? All that led up to the mess we have was either hidden or ignored. People in the know looked the other way in order to keep their jobs. Those who objected were shown the door. Ack!
We can’t regulate every activity with secular law. But what if people didn’t check their consciences at the office door? What if they had a moral center that provides the standard (for behavior where no corporate guidance exists) against which contemplated behavior can be compared?
In the language of business, this is called being principle-centered. That flows from having a core philosophy. This is what spawns the mission and vision of every firm. Who’s not for that?!
Obviously, too many people are not – or are too afraid to stand up for it – such that the size of the mess created by the lack of unshakeable corporate philosophy and principle-centeredness has created is unimaginable…
With so much uncertainty, it would be good to rebuild on solid foundation, on those timeless principles that serve master and slave equally well.
Posted by Patricia Murray – CEO, Holodesic Solutions
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:44
Worthless
Just religious content – “the bible guides you”… worthless as business proposition. The article is from Rick Warren, a controversial minister.
Out of place.
Posted by Marco Romero from Business Intelligence Consulant at IT Services Industry
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:44
Respect and integrity
The same way anyone has succeeded historically in good times and bad. Work hard, treat your customers with respect and do it all with great integrity. Today having a good business plan that is flexible and adaptable to changing circumstances, truly understanding your target market and/or creating a niche market, and branding yourself or your company are all steps to success in any climate.
Posted by Gail Zabel from Worldwide Management Consultants
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:43
Positive and responsive
To Succeed and thrive would be the key objectives however sustainability is what’s needed today. How do you achieve that? Be positive and responsive; for every economic downturn there are many silver linings and we must pay attention by looking & seeing what opportunities exist/emerge. I have learned to succeed today I must be prepared to do & provide more with less for $less.
Posted by Greg Motayne from Worldwide Management Consultants
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:43
Praise God
May the Lord bless you as you continue to walk in obedience!
Praise God!
Posted by Eli Weske from Worldwide Management Consultants
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:43
Livin4joy
That’s why you need a Plan B. Basically, if you’re in-tuned to the Universe and the “necessities” of the others…You can be very successful regardless of the economy…
I find that everyone is looking for a way to make money…so the opportunities are endless. I found an opportunity that is real simple and profitable. People, for once, are contacting me!! I love it!!!
Let me ask you, if you saw a way where you could make some pretty serious money on the side and it didn’t interfere with what you were already doing would that be something you’d be interested in?
Contact me: livin4joy@yahoo.com
Posted by Ramona Clay from On Startups – The Community For Entrepreneurs
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:42
Plan…plan and plan
Entrepreneurs always deal with uncertainty! Some of the best opportunities are when times look bleak. You need to understand your risk tolerance levels and manage your resources and risks.
As an entrepreneur you need to “find a need and fill it, or “identify a problem and solve it.” You will need to determine the market size for your idea, describe your perfect customer and plan, plan, plan (yes, even though things will rarely work out as planned).
Not everyone is cut out to be an entrepreneur. Entrepreneurs need to be able to make decisions with incomplete information. Entrepreneurs can not afford to suffer from analysis paralysis. Entrepreneurs need to think like an “entrepreneur,” lead people and be prepared to invest your time, effort and a major portion of your life to their business. If the entrepreneur doesn’t have a full commitment to his/her company – if the entrepreneur is not passionate about his/her business, there is a greater likelihood the business will fail.
Your Plan is of paramount importance. You will need to understand the details of what resources you have and what it will take (for example – financial and human capital) to get you from your current situation to achieve your goals.
The economic situation is only one factor relating contributing to the 80-90% failure rate of US businesses. Undercapitalization and poor leadership/management (including but not limited to: not having the appropriate experience, not understanding the details, inappropriately planning for contingencies, not having a Plan B, C and D when things don’t work out as expected etc.) account for the majority of business failures.
Posted by Morris Bocian – President – Creative Business Planning Inc. and NowCapital.com, Adjunct Faculty/Thesis Supervisor – NYU, Adjunct -Baruch
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:42
Prediction
I feel it would be better to put it How can someone’s prediction for success be believed than just who can succeed when future is so uncertain…
Posted by Siddharth Jain – Project Manager – Consultant at Komli Media
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:42
It is possible
If you want success badly…..You have to be persistent and adaptable. There is nothing you cannot achieve…and that’s not just a line, but reality. It make take working 16 hour days, going to various networking events, tweaking your business model, partnering with another company, etc. BUT YES, it is totally possible. Don’t be down on yourself.
Posted by Mary Ann McQueen Butcher from On Startups – The Community For Entrepreneurs
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:42
Beliefnet
Thanks for your encouragement. You should consider redirecting your
preaching to the Beliefnet website.
Posted by Christine Draves from Worldwide Management Consultants
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:41
Luke 12
Can you give thanks for anything? Simply based on the few sentences you shared, I would thank God you are in a position to own a home. Many do not have that privelage.
Does your sustanance come from your employer or from The Provider?
What gifts has the Lord put in you to edify and bless others? Are you taking the opportunity to using them during this time of transition?
I would suggest reading Luke 12 and try to refocus your attention from worrying to believing and seeking God will for your life. Have you asked the Lord to open the door and show you your next steps to take today?
Posted by Eli Weske from Worldwide Management Consultants
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:41
What planet??
I do not know what planet Eli has been residing on in the last 2 years. I am one of the millions on this planet resonsible for a mortgage, food and have no permanent job or medical insurance for 2 years.
As to saying “we are to continue in our work quietly, abiding and obeying the Holy spirit”, – I sincerely and humbley ask – Where is the work?
Posted by Christine Draves from Worldwide Management Consultants
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:40
Be an entrepreneur!!
This is the perfect time to be an entrepreneur!
Posted by lesa mitchel from On Startups – The Community For Entrepreneurs
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:40
Focus on doing what you do best…
More millionaires are born out of recessions than any other time period through out history…Clearly there is a path for success regardless of these economic times. I think the key is to shut out the negativity. Stop listening to the pundits. We can’t predict tomorrow any less or any more than we ever could. I don’t know what tomorrow holds in store for me. All I can do is put the blinders on and focus on achieving my goals regardless of the reports around me. Have I had to change my strategy due to this environment? Absolutely! The many millionaires that will be created during this environment are not focused on predictions…They are problem solvers who can adapt in a constantly changing environment. Don’t buy in to fear-based thinking and focus on doing what you do best…work hard and stay focused on what you can control.
Posted by Ashley DeFranco from Innovative Marketing, PR, Sales, Word-of-Mouth & Buzz Innovators
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:39
…
Deni
When is the future ever certain, except with hindsight?
There have been many times in history where similar events have occured. All different enough so that most people can only see the pattern when you are not in the middle of it.
Reponses to your questions .
1 Relying on the preditions of experts is like picking the winner in a horse race. Some will be right (or near enough) and others won’t be. Trying to pick a winner distracts from facing the reality of what is going on here and now in your business or your life.
2 The pace of change is exciting and interesting for me. I hope that our awareness of the damage we cause will catch up with our abilities to create and innovate allowing us to make better choices – just because we can doesn’t always mean we should.
3 That I would have to people who believe in an interventionist God
4 Living one day at a time is the only option open to us. Thinking otherwise is an illusion and a waste of the only time you have to actually change anything – right now in the present.
Posted by Joanne Law from Leadership Think Tank
dezembro 26th, 2009 at 16:39
God knows…
God knows. The Holy Spirit guides us into all truth. If we acknowledge God in all our ways, He will direct our paths. If we seek the only Wise God, a.k.a. the “Wonderful Counselor”, He will equip us with all that we need for this life. If we do business under His guiding principals of integrity and righteousness, He will prosper our businesses and show us unmerited favor.
It when in our own intelligence, arrogance and price we try to predict by the spirit of witchcraft and motivated by greed and the love of money, that we may prosper for only a moment, but then we are brought low.
Only certain elements are uncertain. Other elements are constant. God’s word says if we sow “wind”, we will reap a whirlwind. We reap what we sow.
Are we humble enough to examine ourselves to ask what we are sowing?
One of the principal teachings of the Word of God is “Foundation Laying”. If our foundation is on sand or on that which is temperal, then it is all in vain and “chasing after the wind” as Ecclesiastes repeats. If our foundation is on the Word of God under the guiding of the Holy Spirit, our plans will not fail. Even if the situation seems deperate or irreversable, we must remember the ressurrection power God demonstrated on the third day after being crucified on the cross. This is where the supernatural power of God and faith come together.
When we continue in wickedness, drunkenness, lewdness, covetousness and all manner of evil and pride, why should we expect to prosper? We are NOT in control. It is a dreadful thing to fall into the hand of the Living God.
Posted by Eli Weske from Worldwide Management Consultants