The current year represents both the second year of a five-year plan laid out in 2024 and the fifth year of a plan conceived in 2021. Maintaining proper management in the short and long term is essential to avoid deviations caused by sudden chaotic situations. For companies operating in the country, the short and long-term challenges are different from those experienced in the last three decades.
Externally, the concept of free trade has been distancing itself from the regulations established since 1994. Internally, the proposed course changes from the Executive Power, backed by the Legislative, add important qualitative risks that companies must consider when making short and long-term decisions. Decisions that do not take the future into account could translate into missed growth opportunities or a decrease in competitiveness.
A balanced approach is key, as a company's leadership should not only focus on the future but also maintain efficient navigation amid turbulence and abrupt changes. In the words of Kraemer, "I am retired, but if you hear about a company that only focuses on the long term, count me in; that job will pay off a lot, without short-term pressures, and the future never really arrives."
It is essential that all long-term planning is held accountable consistently in the short term. Investments in innovation, product development, and customer relationships are vital to ensuring the long-term sustainability of a company. Effective leadership must balance attention to the present situation and its immediate implications without losing sight of medium and long-term objectives.
The current economic uncertainty and the temptation to make short-term decisions are topics addressed by the publication "The Insightful Leader" from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. Harry M. Kraemer warns about the importance of maintaining balance in decision-making, avoiding short-sighted approaches that may lead to chaotic situations. In times of volatility, the focus must remain on the long term, with a well-defined multi-year strategy and a plan with measurable milestones.
In a global context marked by significant changes, both internationally and nationally, companies face crucial decisions for their future. The short or long-term perspective depends on multiple factors, such as the company's objectives, its financial situation, and the conditions of the relevant market. While focusing on the short term may be necessary in certain circumstances, neglecting the long-term horizon can result in negative consequences in the long run.
