You’ve got to keep the game face on, be a light at the end of the tunnel, motivate those around you and surround yourself with positive energies.

If there ever was a time to count on yourself, this is it.  This recession promises to be ugly, confusing and uncertain.

Some simple steps you can take to survive this recession:

- Sell your handgun.  If you’ve ever thought about “it,” get rid of the gun now. 

- Dollarize your current expenses so you understand the replacement costs.

- Do everything you can to increase your income; overtime, contests, bonuses.

- Do everything you can to reduce your current expenses. 

- Make sure your resume/credentials are the right ones for today’s needs.

- Call everyone you know and find out what’s going on out there.  Stay in touch.

- Research skill-sets for a possible industry change.

- Aggressively look for a new job even if you don’t have to.

- Seek a promotion in your current job. 

- Be pleasant, visible, accountable and deliver great results.