Like it or not, big changes are happening right now in Bahrain—but as it turns out, Bahrainis are better-prepared than most. Want to see how prepared you are? Check out the 5 key elements of the Bahraini mindset.
Following up on my recent articles, in which I addressed the new “changes” that have occurred in the Kingdom—namely the fuel price hike and the lifting of subsidies—we follow the average Bahraini on his journey, facing the harshest conditions and passing the toughest of life’s trials and tribulations with minimal physical damage…though the same can’t be said about his mental state.
A fact not lost on this writer, even before all of these changes were imposed, is that Bahrainis have always been a frugal and crafty bunch. A close look at Bahraini car-buying habits, for instance, says a lot about our long-term perspective on life. Nine out of ten Bahrainis will have this to say when asked for car advice: “Japanese, white, V6 engine.” The reasons for this response are numerous but familiar, and they range from reliability to higher resale value.
THIS COST-CUTTING LIFESTYLE CAN HELP WITH YOUR BUSINESS, AS WELL. THE LESS YOU SPEND ON UNNEEDED EXPENSES, THE MORE YOUR FINANCIAL POSITION WILL IMPROVE.
The Bahraini mindset has been crafted over generations to save and pinch pennies whenever possible. A closer look will show you that this point of view has not been such a bad idea. Here are some of the characteristics cultivated by Bahrainis that have helped them weather many a storm. You could learn a thing or two from them, as well!
- Naturally drawn toward long-term choices; and in the case of cars, favors reliability, low running costs, and high resale value above all else.
- Has an affinity for generic and store-branded items: who here hasn’t bought a Lulu Hypermarket or Ramez tissue box?
- Avoids carrying loads of cash around; he has just enough for his errands. That’s why credit cards are pulled out during large dinners with friends.
- Digital services are meant to be free. The Bahraini is a proud member of the free movies/series club: one he invented, maintains, and fights for, tooth and nail. That’s why you rarely see a DVD or Blu-Ray purchased by a Bahraini.
- Enjoys the simpler things in life. He knows that buying brand-name goods and trying to keep up with the latest trends is an exercise in futility. A trip or two to Kuwait a year, and his wardrobe is fully updated!
This cost-cutting lifestyle can help with your business, as well. The less you spend on unneeded expenses, the more your financial position will improve. A good example is business software packages. Instead of buying proprietary software at full price, you could use funding schemes, such as those available from Tamkeen, or explore the idea of alternative packages that cost a fraction of the price of traditional business software.
