First of all, if you are reading this, then it's likely I'm preaching to the choir. Chances are good that you are someone who will succeed in this challenging financial climate the press keeps telling us we are in. Of course it IS real. But the irony is that, when things look this bad the opportunities truly abound! ...for those of us who are smart, that is. I'll explain.

REAL opportunity is born out of turmoil and confusion and fear and upset. That's when change is most likely to take place. Why is that important? ...because during periods of 'status quo' people tend to be satisfied with where they are. 'If it ain't broke, don't fix it' ...but during periods of upset, lots of stuff happens. This includes businesses going out of business—leaving a vacuum that draws in new ideas, better solutions, increased productivity, and most importantly, re-evaluations of conventional systems and established relationships.

Therein lies your opportunities. By embracing the changes, as opposed to hunkering down for the storm (like most people do) , you position yourself to emerge stronger, wiser, and more credible when the storm blows over. In addition, the risk of failure is actually LESS!! ...why? Simple. If you experience failures during the storm, no big deal. Expectations are lower and people tend to be more forgiving in such times as we are about to experience. So in a way, you get a pass—or, at least, more wiggle room.

But, really, that should only be a secondary consideration because, hell or high water, YOU are going to succeed. And when you do, you will find your strength and credibility enhanced. New businesses that 'start up' after the storm has blown over will not be as able to compete with you because YOU will have a foundation that they don't.

So, the last thing you want to do is hunker down with your head in the sand. On the contrary, keep your head up and tune your antennae into what's goi...