These companies became bloated during the economic expansion. Their cost structures got out of hand. Their processes were inefficient. Good times always mask problems. And when times got tight, the bottom fell out. But only an idiot couldn’t see the recession coming. So why didn’t some CEOs take their companies into crisis mode, before the crisis occurred? Because they assumed they could ride it out, just like they did in previous soft economies. What they should have done was plan for the worst. Thousands and thousands of people are unemployed because their CEOs were fat, dumb & happy. If you’re a CEO, don’t let this happen to you. For starters, watch your numbers like a hawk, especially when times are good. When they soften, do something about it immediately, not during the next quarter. Keep watch of the economy closely, and when you see the next recession coming, have a contingency plan in place ready to implement. Give your organization a yearly physical and fix the inefficiencies that are bound to creep in. And always keep your organization sharp — don’t let it get fat, dumb and happy!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
With more than 30 years of management, executive, consulting and speaking experience in markets all over the world, Miller Ingenuity CEO Steve Blue is a globally regarded business growth authority and “turnaround specialist” who has transformed companies into industry giants and enthralled audiences with his dynamic keynotes; StevenLBlue.com.
Intelligent Fare
Ever heard the old adage that you are what you eat? Eat smart, and smart will follow. Keep your brain top-notch and your body as healthy as possible by finding a way to work these foods into your everyday routine. — Carla Torres
Gone Bananas
There’s a reason we evolved from apes. They ate lots of bananas. OK, maybe not, but it’s a nice theory. In addition to being a rich source of good stuff, bananas have been shown to enhance memory.
Brain Berries
A cup of blueberries a day will keep the doctor away — and reduce oxidative stress. Dr. Steven Pratt, author of Superfoods Rx: 14 Foods Proven To Change Your Life, calls these tasty fruits “brainberries”…and he’s got a point.
Dark Side
Chocolate has powerful antioxidant properties and contains several natural stimulants which enhance focus and concentration. It also improves your mood…after all, when has chocolate ever not made you happy?!
