Organisations often find themselves basking in the warm glow of success, a period where growth is robust, profits soar, and the market appears endlessly receptive. This 'Garden of Eden' scenario, where every strategic move seems to yield positive outcomes, can foster a dangerous complacency. We frequently observe leaders becoming overconfident, convinced that their current winning formula is immune to disruption. However, history, both mythical and commercial, teaches us a crucial lesson: a serpent invariably lurks even in the most idyllic settings.

The biblical metaphor of the serpent in Eden serves as a potent reminder that vulnerabilities exist even when conditions appear perfect. For businesses, this 'serpent' can manifest as an unforeseen technological shift, a sudden regulatory change, a disruptive new competitor, or an internal flaw in an otherwise successful process. Failing to acknowledge and prepare for these potential threats during times of prosperity is a profound strategic error. Leaders must actively champion a culture of continuous risk assessment, understanding that today’s triumphs do not guarantee tomorrow’s security. Proactive risk management, therefore, is not a burden; it is an essential investment in future resilience. Do not wait for the bite to begin scanning the landscape for hidden dangers.