MANILA, Philippines — Trends in Philippine economy are discussed in Philippine Venture Capital sessions by Mr. Ed Isidro held every last Thursday of the month at AIM in Makati at 7 a.m. Like a storm we can spot where it is and the trend of its path although we can do little to affect its path.

It is important to predict its path so that those who may be affected can prepare for its coming. In economics too, it is advantageous to spot trends to be able to take advantage of opportunities that present themselves as well as to be forewarned of problems they may cause.

Some of the trends identified by Mr. Isidro over the years were for example, the difficulty of getting household help and therefore the need for washing machines and laundry shops; the proliferation of motorcycles pointing to the need for motorcycle repair shops; the popularity of the Internet and social networking with the consequent unburdening of the post office; the popularity of malls that have eliminated the independent stores in shopping districts, and many other trends. Spotting the trends has been helpful in Mr. Isidro’s seminars. Are there trends we can spot today that we can prepare for or take advantage of in the future?

Visions unlike trends are things we can influence and not only identify. A saying goes that: those who have no vision perish. Failing to try to forge a vision is almost just as bad. Where will you be 15 years from now? Will you be in the same position as you are now?

Even if you are in a pleasant satisfactory situation, are you willing to stay where you are or would you wish to move forward? In an alumni gathering a participant recounted consulting an older business man when he was about 30 who counseled him to leave his managerial position in a family corporation and to accept what ever separation share he would be offered and start on his own.

As it turned out he was given nothing but he never regretted going on his own. He was wasting psychological energy just to ward off impositions of his partners which could well be used in promoting his own business. His venture prospered and allowed him to move to some other ventures.

In his new ventures he insisted on a vision that all the participants in the venture could buy in. In one venture they envisioned to becoming the best hotel in the country. The vision had consequences.

They had to charge the highest room rates and refurbish their equipment regularly. With the vision they not only succeeded but expanded.

With a vision, planning becomes possible. Recently Orcullo won a world championship in billiards and what was remarkable was that he not only put the numbered balls in the pockets expertly but planned at every shot where his cue ball with rest at the end of the shot in preparation for the next shot. Without a clear vision or a target to aim in an organization {or also for a person}, the organization can go round and round in circles and never reach its destination.

Spotting trends, clarifying visions, and planning are critical for success whether in economics, or spirituality, or personally. Most of these require reflection and measurement if possible for best results.

<Emeterio_Barcelon@Yahoo.com.>