Thomas Friedman's column in Sunday's New York Times (Serious in Singapore) describes the nimbleness of Singapore's people in responding to a changing world. Their mantra: What world are we living in and what do we have to do to thrive?
As a tiny city-state, lacking natural resources, in a volatile part of the world, Singapore has developed a culture and economy based on rapid adaptation.
What are some of the lessons here for owner/CEOs?
1. Focus on the world as it is, not as we would like it to be.
2. The world is large and we are small; learn to move quickly.
3. Success comes from being nimble and hustling.
4. Training and education are the foundation.
5. No amount of wishing is going to make reality different from what it is.
Singapore's success is a great example of figuring out what you have and making the most of it.
Wayne,
I've been preparing a presentation to my fellow consultants about what it takes to thrive in this economy. I've interviewed a number of successful consultants and reflected on my own experience, and I'm amazed that I've come to some of the same conclusions you've drawn from the Singapore mantra. I'd say, in fact, that all of your five lessons apply.
Thanks for your insights.
Posted by: Chris Witt | February 15, 2011 at 06:14 PM