GIVING UP IS NOT AN OPTION!!!
March 4, 2009
EDWARD HARRIS AT LARGE!
GIVING UP IS NOT AN OPTION!!!
In spite of the anxieties in the global financial markets including failures of banks which until a few weeks ago, we thought would never affect us but have now reached our shores, we cannot afford to get distracted from the path of creativity that will ensure that we rise from the current economic pitfall.
Every year as the Independence Anniversary of our Nation is observed, the occasion gives citizens an opportunity to reflect on the past and look towards the future. The 30th Anniversary of Saint Lucia’s Independence was observed at a time of global economic turbulence. There could be no optimism about the immediate future as the economic gurus continue to predict that it will get worse before it gets better. However, the mood of our people seems to be one of understanding and patience.
There could be no better time to showcase the industrial achievements of our nation. The National Independence Exhibition which was held at Beausejour, Gros Islet, February 25 to March 1, 2009 presented an opportunity for St. Lucians and visitors to see the growth of industry in St. Lucia. Developments in the Manufacturing and Services sectors are worthy of note. Thanks to the collaboration between Government and the Private Sector.
St. Lucia has world class manufacturers. It is evident that such certification attests to quality; there could be no better platform to launch a Buy Local Campaign. The Campaign must now be fully unleashed so that St. Lucian workers can keep their jobs. The pressure of competition and increased costs of doing business have definitely cut into the profits of most companies – as a result, there is need for increased local and export sales.
The Buy Local Campaign will help to get local products in the hands of consumers and assist in developing Customer Loyalty for those products of acceptable standard. Many will make an argument in favour of price but consumers will have to be more informed, as price is not the only factor to justify the purchase of an item. The number of ounces in a container, quality of the product, taste, etc. are all factors that should be taken into consideration. Today’s consumers must begin to shop smart. Companies interested in gaining consumers’ confidence must begin a programme to educate consumers about their products and their effective use. Services were showcased as well and many visitors were amazed to note developments that have taken place in the sector. The services sector is the dominant sector. It is in this sector that most of the new job opportunities will be created.
Visitors to the exhibition were generally impressed, there were many outstanding booths. The organizers should be congratulated for their efforts. In going forward I believe the time has come for focused trade exhibitions such as Banking and Insurance, Construction and Household including Furniture, Gift Items, etc. Training for persons who will manage the booths is necessary as there was a lack of energy in many booths. Information had to be requested by visitors rather than being volunteered by attendants. An opportunity was lost at the Exhibition to host Seminars to promote products and services, a feature that should be included in future exhibitions. Due to the large area the exhibition occupied, impact was lost. Exhibitions must now become a regular feature in our national programme of activities to promote trade, commerce and industry.
The economy is the hottest debate around the world. America is taking the lead on the subject with stimulus and bail out packages to help out troubled industries. President Obama is accused of talking down the economy but he is being realistic. Politicians are always optimistic even in the face of disaster as it is their belief that their constituents need hope. However, President Obama promised change we can believe in and as such he has to be truthful in his discussions with the citizens of the United States of America and the rest of the world. In his first month in office, he has demonstrated in some tangible ways, the type of changes he promised to bring about in his campaign. In spite of his best efforts, politicians on the opposite side are bent on criticizing and are now moving to get Entrepreneurs to lose confidence in the government referring to it as a socialist government.
The Government of St. Lucia will be challenged to present a Budget that includes programmes to stimulate the economy and give citizens the confidence necessary to get them through these difficult times.
The St. Lucia Development Bank is finally launched and business persons in the MSME sector will now be able to present their proposals for funding. It is anticipated that there would be a strong demand for Cash Flow assistance. There should be a special window for ICT related businesses. The bank should support institutions that promote entrepreneurship as a top priority.
There are lots of interesting developments taking place in our midst and it is evident the St. Lucian Entrepreneurs are taking a pro active stance, even as the world financial crisis deepens.
Hereunder is my motivational piece of the week.
MOUNTAINS ARE CLIMBED ONE STEP AT A TIME
Everyone who got where they are had to begin where they were.
Your opportunity for success is right in front of you.
To attain success or to reach your goal,
don’t worry about having all the answers in advance.
You just need to have a clear idea of your goal and move toward it.
Don’t procrastinate when faced with a difficult problem.
Break your problems into parts and handle one part at a time.
Develop a tendency toward action.
You can make something happen today.
Break your big plan for success into small steps and take the first step right away.
Success starts with a first step.
© Copyright 2009 www.yourdailymotivation.com
Giving up is definitely not an option. Keep the Faith, God is in Charge, Dream Big and Expect Miracles Everyday!!!
Edward Harris
Real Estate CyberSpace Specialist (RECS)
Freelance Journalist, Biblicist, Business & PR Consultant, Realtor, Networker, Private Sector & CSR Advocate, Motivational Speaker
Email: eaharrisdestiny@gmail.com
Websites: http://www.stluciasimplybeautiful.com
http://Edharas.webprosperity.com
http://www.brainstorminggroup.webs.com