Long-Term Economic Health

We know that the US economy will recover, whether it be in 2010 or 2011.  To me the bigger question is what will we have learned from the current recession?  Will we then forsake short-term windfalls at whatever long-term cost, for the longer-term, sustained growth and profitability?  Will our corporate leaders (and boards of directors) then believe that the overall business objectives that lead to long-term economic growth and stability, outweigh the immediate gratification of exorbitant bonuses or crippling parachutes?  Will accountability for one’s actions, either individually or corporately, be more than an empty promise?  Will we ever see someone admit business wrongdoing before spending millions of dollars in defense of a misguided ego and corrupt practices?  Will we ever see personal agendas take a back seat to sound strategic planning and efficient, tactical execution?  If we don’t see these types of changes upon our recovery, how long can we expect the recovery to be a sustainable one?

After all, if we don’t learn from our past mistakes, how can we expect a better outcome in the future?  If you continue to put chicken, potatoes, carrots, and onions in a crock pot, don’t expect chocolate cake to come out when the alarm sounds.