I am no political commentator but I have always been interested in what is happening in politics and especially the impact politicians and what they say have on the economy.
This week, again, noise about South African Minister of Finance, Pravin Gordhan, being investigated by the Hawks, sent the Rand into disarray. And while the Rand is volatile at best, it seems that there is such a measure of trust in what Gordhan can do for South Africa, that as soon as his image is threatened, the market reacts negatively.
Everyone is looking for economic stability but I get the impression that people are also looking for someone to believe in. The sentiment of both industry and the man on the street seemed to be positive towards Gordhan and it is as if he is expected to be the one to make a difference, to keep the South African economy out of junk status. I sense that everyone is waiting with abated breath, that they are keeping their fingers crossed that Gordhan will be above board.
And while I might be too old for superheroes, we all feel better when we can trust the person at the steer of things. Perhaps sometimes, we all do need a hero of some sort.
Heroes come in many shapes and forms and you might have a hero for an hour, for your life or even in a specific situation. I have written before how important mentorship has been in my life and I still believe that with proper guidance and support, all of us can reach our full potential.
But more than just searching for support and inspiration in others, we should also allow ourselves to be the support and inspiration. You do not have to be the most successful business person or community leader to motivate, to share your knowledge or to give guidance.
We all have the potential to be a hero to someone somewhere. Let’s not miss that opportunity and perhaps in this instance the example can work its way from the bottom up! Because when you are up there – at the helm of things, running a country or an economy – your people need you to be a real leader!
Remember Mandela? He has been a hero to many for many different reasons, but it was the integrity of his leadership that made him a Leader.
Having said all this, sometimes it is about more than the man. In his Fin24.com article Johannes Wessels asks and attempts to answer: “Why is business in this predicament?” (Read)