Recently, I walked out of my office building with Rodney, one of our security guards. I always enjoy exchanging a few words with him, especially because he has a great attitude.

On this occasion, we were talking about something work related, and I remarked that several people have told me that they don't want to work so hard right now "since there isn't a lot of business anyway."

Rodney jumped on this and responded, "Are you kidding? This is exactly when we should put in extra effort." He proceeded to tell me everything that he had been doing to improve himself: he's taking a real estate class; he completed two years of finance courses; he has explored different professional opportunities.

He declared that when the economy turns, "I'll be able to evaluate my talent and see what options are open to me."

I think you'll agree that not only does Rodney have a great attitude; he's also wise!

Many professionals complain about their current lot in life: how they feel stuck, not stimulated, bored, resentful, etc. Typically they respond to ideas to counteract their woes with the wave of a hand.

These people are never going to change their circumstances, because they're waiting for a silver bullet.

If you want a better situation, it's up to you to proactively do something about it. You need to be the initiator, and not to wait for something to happen to you. Simply put, you need to be accountable.

It doesn't matter whether you're an executive, a business owner, a partner in a law firm, or recently laid off: you can do your version of what Rodney is doing. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Explore new areas of professional interest;
• Initiate a new marketing program for business development;
• Attend a meeting at your trade or professional association;
• Delve further into areas of your expertise that you've not yet tapped;
• Read something different than what you usually read;
• Join a discussion group or a professional forum on the internet;
• Tap into your alumni association to meet new (and reconnect with old) acquaintances.

The important thing is to take action and do something. Let Rodney's story inspire you to position yourself for better days ahead.

Copyright 2009 Lisa M. Aldisert