And about that economy...

It's scary! So Halloween is the perfect time to talk about the economy, strategy, and change. Let's take a quick look at what companies are doing - and what they should be doing.

And what are companies doing? Nothing. Everybody is hunkering down, cutting expenses, cancelling critical projects. Is that the right answer? Of course not.

Low expectations makes this exactly the right time to position for the future. It's an opportunity to make tough decisions, implement change, prepare for new and different opportunities.

Think about it from the other side. Once business turns positive again, do you want to take on hard change - or will you need to push "pedal to the metal"? The latter, of course. So if you want to drive the business when times are good but you don't want to tackle the tough, important issues when times are tough - when do you want to deal with them? (Hint: they don't go away on their own....)

Swallow hard, understand that you're making an investment in your future - and go do it. When you're through and on the other side, you'll be much better positioned to take full advantage of future opportunities - and you'll be thrilled to be there. Yes, times are tough, but the time is right...