by Guest Writer Des Walsh

At the southern end of Rainbow Bay beach, where we walk most mornings, is the world famous Snapper Rocks surfing break. Usually, and on any day of the week, there are plenty of surfers to be seen there. Sometimes most or all of them stay away, whether because the surf is too choppy or, as in the photo here, it is just flat.

But even when it is flat there are likely to be a few hopefuls, waiting for waves that, for all the casual observer can discern, are just not around at that time.

Looking at the picture this morning or three surfers waiting for a wave with none in evidence, I’m thinking that part of me actually likes the idea of people being hopeful, whether of a wave to make my surfing day, or some new business coming out of the blue and making my annual income look much healthier. I’m basically a perennial optimist.

Then my brain kicks in and suggests that if I don’t do more than wait and hope, I’ll be like Charles Dickens’ Mr Micawber, a man who owed much and earned less, and who lived in hope that something would “turn up”.

And in the business context, given the parlous state of the global economy, it’s probably even more foolhardy than usual to be just living in hope of growth, or even survival. It might be boom times for receivers and administrators. For the rest of us it’s a time to get really focused and take systematic action. Indeed, 2009 looks like being a year to test us all.

Something might well turn up, but just hoping for that is probably a recipe for tears before bedtime.

What’s your tip for a way to ensure good business in 2009?

Des Walsh