The chosen theme for Financial Information Month 2012, urges us to step outside of our comfort space. Moreover, it openly demands that we take a deeper look at what success should look like now and in the future. Is it about achieving our personal goals? Is it a passion for winning with customers? Is it about recognizing and celebrating the true value of our people? Or is it just about constantly achieving the bottom-line results year on year? Whatever your response, to achieve must begin with the ability to conceive. A clear vision for a sound future is a foundation principle that sets us apart from each other. After all, money wealth and success follow vision and purpose. What is your purpose? 

It is no secret that we live in very challenging times that tax our limited resources. Everyday countless minute decisions are made regarding what our next step should be. We juggle bills; we decide which preschool to take our young ones and we choose where and how to spend our last dollar. Sadly though, some people make the mistake of buying what they want while ignoring what they really need. Perhaps deciding what our true needs are can help define our path to success. 

Moreover, if we venture to gain a better understanding of our operating environment we should be well on our way to conquer our fears and achieve our aspirations. However, make no mistake that the new global thrust coupled with the advent of the Internet has widened our operating environment. No longer should we only think local but we must be mindful that the world is now seen as a global village. “Think local but act global,” is a refrain that has become very familiar in business circles. Should this be ignored? Of course not! With a wider marketplace the options for delivering more products and even the same products and services become greater. How can we make this happen? 

Satisfying needs, wants and desires through real products and services that enhance the life experiences of their users is the key to success. People are by nature very much interested in anything that enriches their lives. Every minute tons of new ideas are born but many don’t make it to market for one reason or another. This is not a hindrance to those determined to win in the face of adversity and fierce competition. They see it as a welcome challenge to make a name for themselves and the institutional badge they wear. 

Another trait or behavior of those who venture to compete and win is simply to recognize that without people nothing happens. But more happens when the right people are in place. More ideas, more innovation, more creativity, more chemistry and more achievements create the synergy necessary to achieve great results. Finding the strength in every one of us is the recipe for good results all around. This would build character and maintain the leverage we need to compete both locally and globally. 

Although the theme may suggest a hint of personal challenge to innovate and compete, it also should suggest that we move together in one accord.   

This article was submitted by the Hon. Curtis Martin, St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla National Bank Limited, as part of the activities commemorating Financial Information Month, October 2012, celebrated under the theme: Challenge Yourself. Innovate-Compete-Succeed.