Dear Ann,

Whenever times seem tough, I always remember that there is still opportunity knocking.  During some of the toughest times in American history, great advances have been made.  During the "Great" Depression, both the Empire State Building and Golden Gate Bridge were built.  Yet, that was another point in time when the naysayers exclaimed that the sky was falling.  

If we listen to the media, one would definitely believe that things are horrible.  Certainly many are suffering due to lay-offs, the credit crisis, the stock market and a myriad of other challenges.  Yet, I know that within these challenges lie golden opportunities, just waiting for us to find them.  

Dave Buck, one of the founders of Coachville, a leader in professional coach training shared a new idea earlier this year that I think is so appropriate as we navigate through this time of change.  He said that the root word for recession is recess.  And, that when we don't take a recess, it leads to depression.  What a great double entendre that provides us with an important shift in perception.  If we look at the now named recession as a recess, it's simply a "temporary wi

thdrawal from the usual work or activity".  To me, that changes everything - suddenly the fear can be transformed into opportunity.

Now we can truly look around and see this recess as an important and needed break from the old belief in 'business as usual'.  I believe that we are truly being given an opportunity to approach our lives and our business in a different, more thoughtful way.  Companies are prioritizing social responsibility and its inherent priorities as the market demands more transparency and values-driven strategies.  As individuals, we too have the opportunity to look more deeply at what we value and why.  

Today, I invite you to hear the opportunity that is knocking on your door.  Open the door and see the good that is out there waiting for you.  Learn what you can, teach what you know.  Use this recess to take a personal and professional inventory.  Dig deep into your organization to build on your strengths, fix your weaknesses and eliminate waste.  Remember that your customers and employees are watching you to see if you are a part of the solution or a part of the problem.  Reward them with your dedication to seizing this opportunity to be of greater service and to earning their trust for the long term.