Robert Drummond, president of First Global Financial Services Limited. - Winston Sill/Freelance Photographer

As we move towards positive signs of recovery in the United States economy, do not waste a good recession. This is the time to develop a plan for success and affiliation with profitable, local financial institutions with a good reputation. According to Robert Drummond, president of First Global Financial Services (FGFS) Limited, "As a company with a history of strength, stability and excellent relationship management coupled with the fact that we are a wholly owned subsidiary of the GraceKennedy Group whose reputation and credibility is known both locally and overseas, we have consistently ensured trustworthiness with our clients." He also shared his philosophy, "Success in life must not be measured by material possessions but by one's ability to create and find new opportunities to help people grow."

Tips for Coping

1. Listen and apply good advice.

2. 'Brand Jamaica' is priceless right now.

3. Deposit kindness in the universe without expecting anything in return.

4. Seek out the places where you can secure the resources to accomplish your goals.

5. Build a solid foundation early in life.

Elaine Grant-Bryan - Contributed

Meaningful Collaboration

Particularly as a result of recent successes in the field of athletics, brand Jamaica is well positioned to accommodate international business ventures. The greatly improved world-class airports are attractive to all travellers as they are now equipped with many of the amenities, food and shops for the customers they serve. Jamaica is still one of the most appealing destinations in the world. According to Anthony Johnson, Jamaica's ambassador to the United States, "We should establish more entertainment tourist attractions and collaborate with Jamaica's Trade and Invest (formerly JAMPRO) to work on development of businesses near the ports where cruise ships dock to increase tourist dollars on the island." He encourages Jamaicans who are living abroad to continue to import goods from Jamaica and to develop the distribution of goods outside of our island.

Discipline

It takes discipline and delayed gratification to achieve and maintain long-term success. The Caribbean people have flourished well over the years abroad because of effectively using what they have in the region. Jamaica is a marketable global brand, so we should value this fact. Remember the 'what what what approach to success' - what you do with what you have determines what you become.

Elaine Grant-Bryan is an empowerment speaker, Georgia Leadership Sandy Springs graduate, recipient of Mayor Shirley Franklin Phoenix and Judge Glenda Hatchett awards & real estate expert featured on HGTV and Fine Living channels. Send feedback/questions to elaine@elainebryan.com