Copy of The Dilema of Modern Business: Chasing Quick Gains or building lasting value

As someone who's been in the business world for a considerable time, I've seen it all. The triumphs, the pitfalls, the near-misses, and unfortunately, the outright disasters. And if there’s one recurring theme that consistently underpins these mishaps, it’s the temptation to cut corners. Whenever things go awry, it’s usually because someone—whether driven by pressure, greed, or sheer impatience—decided that the fastest route was the best route.

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This brings us to a fundamental question that every businessperson must confront: What’s more important—building a good reputation and delivering genuine value, or chasing profits at any cost, even if it means leaving client relationships in the dust?

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At first glance, the answer seems obvious. Of course, reputation and value should take precedence. After all, what’s a business without its customers? But if you take a closer look at today’s business environment, the reality is far murkier. Many businesses are more concerned with looking like they care about their customers than actually delivering on that promise. They’re focused on projecting an image of value, all while the underlying framework is geared towards squeezing out every last cent, regardless of the long-term consequences. Their guiding principle is often "make money by any means necessary, just don’t get caught."

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But here’s the thing: this approach is a house of cards, bound to collapse sooner or later. True value, authentic brand values, and a clear vision—these are the elements that make a business truly resilient. They’re the difference between a business that’s in it for the long haul and one that’s merely biding its time.

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The Tortoise and the Hare: A Business Analogy

Let’s revisit the classic fable of the tortoise and the hare, a story with timeless wisdom that’s especially relevant in today’s fast-paced business world. Imagine that the hare represents the business model focused on quick wins and rapid growth. This is the model that’s all about injecting steroids into the business—pumping up numbers quickly, scaling at breakneck speed, and chasing the next big thing without a moment’s pause. On a global scale, this approach is often seen as more American—a culture that values speed, innovation, and aggressive expansion.

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On the other hand, the tortoise embodies a different philosophy. This is the business that moves methodically, taking the time to lay down a solid foundation before scaling up. It’s not in a rush to achieve overnight success but is instead focused on long-term sustainability. If we were to draw a cultural comparison, this approach aligns more closely with traditional Japanese business practices, which emphasize careful planning, quality, and longevity.

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In the modern business spectrum, it’s clear that the scales of popularity often swing towards the hare. Fast growth, late nights, and the allure of quick returns are what many businesses chase after. But while the hare may get off to an impressive start, the tortoise has something much more valuable—staying power.

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The Allure and the Risk of the Hare's Approach

The hare's approach can be enticing, especially in a world that rewards instant results. A company might see explosive growth, land major deals, and dominate the market—at least temporarily. But this kind of success is often built on shaky ground. The focus on speed and profit can lead to corner-cutting, with quality, ethics, and customer relationships being the first casualties. And when the cracks start to show, it can be too late to repair the damage.

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I've seen companies sprint ahead, basking in the glow of their rapid ascent, only to crash just as quickly when the foundation they neglected begins to crumble. They may make headlines, but it’s usually not for reasons they’d want.

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The Strength of the Tortoise: Consistency and Foundations

Now, let’s consider the tortoise. It’s not flashy. It doesn’t make for sensational news. But it has something far more valuable than speed—consistency. In business, consistency trumps intensity every time. While the hare is busy chasing the next quick win, the tortoise is steadily building a business that will last. It’s focused on delivering real value, fostering genuine relationships, and creating a brand that customers can trust.

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Businesses that follow the tortoise’s path may not see explosive growth overnight, but they build something far more enduring. They create a legacy. They understand that a solid foundation—built on strong values, quality service, and a clear vision—is what truly matters. This foundation not only supports the business during good times but also provides the resilience needed to weather the inevitable storms.

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Finding Hope in the Rat Race

In today’s business climate, it’s easy to feel like you’re stuck in a rat race, constantly scrambling to keep up with competitors, trends, and the ever-changing demands of the market. But here’s a reassuring thought for all the diligent hares out there: You can win in the end. The key is to learn from the tortoise. Embrace consistency over intensity, and focus on building strong foundations.

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It’s not about rejecting speed or innovation; it’s about balancing them with a commitment to your core values. When you do this, you’re not just playing to win the race—you’re ensuring that your business remains strong and relevant long after the race is over.

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So, whether you see yourself as the tortoise or the hare, remember that success in business is not just about how fast you can go, but how well you can sustain that momentum over time. Consistency, integrity, and a commitment to delivering genuine value are the cornerstones of a lasting business. They’re what will keep you in the game long after the initial sprint is over.

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In the end, the race is not just about who finishes first; it’s about who finishes strong, with a business that stands the test of time. That’s the kind of victory worth striving for.

Thank you for reading, I am Joseph Farodoye and I celebrate the spirit of Fargin - Finding joy in the success of others.

If you want more inspiring posts take a look at www.bluxecentury.com/blog

#Value #Hope #Consistency #Bluxe #Fargin #Leadership #BusinessSuccess

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