Run in? Run out!

Running in a brand new car engine is prepping it for the long haul. The thousands of miles laid ahead, the real tasks, the real challenges.

Preparation is such an important stage of whatever we do or plan. Sometimes life takes a wrong turn and when we think we are ready, things turn to the wrong side; psychologically and even physically.

A recent family crisis took a real toll emotionally and not to mention financially. Luckily things turn for the better.

I thought my preparation for such scenarios are pretty well greased. I thought my 'engine' was run in for such a disaster. Surviving this taught me one thing which I want to share with you.

Like any brand, person or event. It is not how well 'run-in' you are but how to continue 'running out' of the situation. Not in avoidance but to take decisions you made in stride and continuing with it. Not to regret regret. Develop a 'running momentum' in dealing with problems that came and believe it that it will all work out. Move on each day for the next.

An analogy will be to not stopping after a major race like a marathon or Ironman is over but to keep going and training even if you have not signed up for another.

Cost of building the Singapore brand

Singapore as a brand, in my opinion, is quite something. Small population, small land size yet with big achievements. Overtaking Malaysia in GDP and fastest post-recession rebound in Asia are some of the list of accolades. As a Singaporean born and bred here, I do have my moments when foreigners whom I met sang praises about our nation. However, I do have deep sentiments about this achievement. For everything what Singapore stands for today, there is a price tag to it. A rather substantial one in fact.

Economic Precedence
One of the top priority of Singapore's standing in the world stage is economic growth and it's growth resource; its people. Comprising of a growing migrant population giving us a hand in sustaining and growing our economic powerhouse. Long working hours, intensive price competition and productivity have strained family relations and time. Low birth rates and rising singleton numbers are the price Singapore needs to pay for this growth.

Mandatory Migrant Social Integration Period
As an effect to the first point on economic growth and falling birth rates, migrants are part of the answer to building Singapore as a nation and brand. Though slowing down in PR approvals, the substantial base of migrants are in the process of adjusting to the Singaporean culture of work and lifestyle. In the current stage, the Singaporean brand is also inevitably affected as this adjustment could take years and might change the way the brand is being perceived.

Erosion of Social Values
The perception of the efficient, well educated and economic productive Singaporean is a result of time spent away from building social ties. Less time for family and friends with a higher need for instant gratifications. Smoking, binge drinking and gambling have all risen in numbers. Number of divorces and singletons have also hit record numbers, not to mention low birth rates amongst married couples.

In the eyes of the world, we might be perceived as a world class city with a high brand equity. I am grateful as a consultant who does regional work occasionally. However, I am also very clear the price we have to pay in order to get there. The question is, are we willing to continue paying for it and probably raise the stakes higher for this brand?