There is no doubt about it. These are turbulent times. Everywhere you look, there are messages of doom and gloom.

Yet problems in the overall economy do not necessarily mean problems in your PERSONAL economy. It all depends upon your mind set and approach. Instead of being a deer in the headlights looking at the onset of a crashing economy, take action!

Fortunes have been made during times such as these, and not only by the wealthy. This is the time to look for opportunity.

1. Emphasis Value - Look at your products from your customer's perspective. What is it that you really offer? If you have consumer clients, it might be health, stress relief, fun, self-confidence, security, or any other deeply held value. If you have business clients, you may increase their profitability, lower their costs, or help them find new opportunities.

Now ask yourself, "How else can I provide this benefit?" Write down all the ideas that come to you. Allow yourself to be outrageous. After you've exhausted all the possibilities, take some time to evaluate and see what you can implement right now.

2. Bonus or Giveaway - Is there something that you can give away that will create more business? Cosmetics companies have given away free bonuses for years. Perhaps you can offer a class, or information, or a gift. Disneyland and Walt Disney World are offering a free ticket on a visitor's birthday in 2009. Because this is an unusual offer, it is likely to attract people who might otherwise have considered a day at a Disney park an unnecessary luxury!

3. Create business partnerships - Consider what is possible working with other companies rather than competing. If you have a high-cost service, perhaps you can give away an item from another company. You might share marketing costs or create a special offer that involves several companies. You could create a joint venture and pay other companies to sell your product or service. The possibilities are endless!

Wise business owners will use this unsettling time to eliminate what doesn't work and to serve their customers more fully. The key is to understand how to give your customers the best value so they feel great about doing business with you.

Consider expanding your horizons. Successful people are visionaries. They are willing to step into the unknown to birth a new creation. Turbulent times cause most people to retreat to security and concern about lack. The truth is that both poverty and wealth begin from within. Which will you choose? What will you do to take advantage of this golden opportunity?