For this first Monday on this first month of the 2009, let’s focus our eyes toward the future.

What are the trends in today’s global economy and world markets? What is everyone talking about? What are the big problems our country and other countries face? What industries are growing, what is declining and where are people willing to put their time, energy and efforts?

Here are 3 ways to find out what’s happening:

• Grab an international, national and local newspaper. With a black Sharpie, scan the headlines for trends. Circle them all and start to notice big areas of interest such as the “Green” movement, sustainable energy, universal health care and global inter-connections, to name a few.
• Listen to people’s complaints. What are they struggling with? Is this a trend (example: lack of time)? Remember: where there is a problem, there is a job.
•  Watch those wild gadgets and products hitting the market. What is their appeal and what need do they satisfy?

This past year was certainly a wild roller coaster ride. And 2009 will probably be just as challenging. So hold onto your hats and be ready to kick it up to the next level. Let’s be bolder, more creative and a lot more willing to take risks as we grow ourselves and our businesses in the New Year.