I worked for a smart guy years ago who told me that to be successful what I really needed was rat-like cunning. Have you ever watched a rat in a maze? You'll notice that he's constantly on the move, sniffing here and sniffing there, rarely visiting the same place twice (he's smart enough to avoid wasting time), and eventually finding the food, the object that motivated all his behavior. What my boss was trying to tell me was that intelligent persistence, and singular focus, would help me reach my goals.

Today, even for the rats, the world is a little different. If you keep doing what you've done, you can no longer expect to get what you've always gotten. People are putting off decisions and delaying expenditures. Actually, they are really trying to be smart about their own businesses and families. We really are all in the same boat and together trying to navigate our way to smoother waters.

Remember, the daffodils don't care about the economy, neither do the rats. All they know is that to reach their goals it's a matter of staying on task, looking for opportunities, and creating their destinies. Take their lesson to heart: you're definitely smarter, but you still need to be just as persistent.

It's Spring, go out and surprise someone. Call someone you haven't talked to in too long just to find out how they are doing and to listen. Send flowers to someone who deserves them. Make it a point to thank everyone - even if they haven't done anything. Be as generous as you can and your attitude of generosity will be returned. You'll be surprised at how enjoyable your days will be.

I know a good networker who believes in the "Three foot rule of implied consent." It's simply the belief that because we are all human beings sharing space, if someone is within three feet of you it's OK to start a conversation. The rule doesn't state what the conversation should be about, but if you read my sales tip I would suggest that you start with a compliment. My personal approach is never to talk about my business unless the other person asks. Human nature being what it is, they usually do.