It has been reported that the UK economy grew by 0.8% between July and September which for many was quite a surprise. It appears as though there is a never ending stream of negative news regarding both the UK and global economy, all of which has done little or nothing to extinguish fear amongst businesses and consumers.
Fear can be a destructive emotion in business, but is also a potent motivator. What's important is to have control and balance of fear. Separating emotion and business entirely would be a risky approach because with emotion comes compassion, empathy and determination.
If as a business manager or owner you feel overcome with fear it will only stop you from taking the required steps which you need to take. For example, fears over the economy could possibly stop you from taking on new personnel or investing in new machinery. Taking risks, be them big or small is part of being in business and if everyone stopped taking risks altogether it would completely stall the economy.
Growth is vital for all businesses. However it is just as important that growth is managed to be sustainable. Darwin observed that nature might be full of wonder and beauty but the reality of it is that all that beauty we see is actually a fierce battle for survival. Many would claim that the business world has wholeheartedly accepted and adopted Darwinian thinking.
Competition is a key force of evolution in nature and the same applies to business. Competition forces a business to be imaginative and to grow in order to make certain the business can endure and eventually beat the competition.
At the same time the government has a responsibility to make sure that the business environment is given as much confidence as possible to encourage growth and balance. A country in complete and utter fear isn't going to help the economy at all. Following more than two years of economic trouble it is going to take time for confidence to be repaired.
The UK's public sector is facing a big squeeze on spending and regrettably many civil servants will lose their jobs. Ultimately it is the private sector which is going to have to grow and take on as many of these people as possible.
If your business is experiencing success then fear shouldn't stop you from buying those executive desks, glass desks or any other executive office furniture you like. Investing in your business is vital, both in terms of manpower and equipment.
The future may be uncertain but the present is ours and it is vital that fear does not drag businesses and the economy down a slippery slope. A famous United States general, George S Patton once said "There is a time to take counsel of your fears, and there is a time to never listen to any fear".