I fear, though, many people will do little but hope business picks up. These people hesitate to spend money, start new projects, and boost their own enterprises. Instead, they whine about business and complain about the economy. But just as the stock market leaves “market timers” behind, so does the economy. We can’t wait for someone else’s first move to signal the time to recharge our businesses. We must listen to customers to find out how their businesses have changed, and we must accurately-and honestly-gauge our strengths and weaknesses. We have to forget about the past and take advantage of the business climate that exists now. Wishing and waiting won’t strengthen the economy. No matter what the economic situation-boom or bust-we always can exploit weaknesses in competitors’ positions, capitalize on our strengths, start projects that show promise, cut dead-end efforts, and take other actions that improve our businesses.