For several months now, the global financial and real estate sectors have been in crisis. There is even talk of a recession on a global scale, expected to impact all sectors and economies large and small. Clearly, 2009 is concealing a lot of uncertainty. Nevertheless, I truly believe that through positive thinking, hard work, and intelligent planning – through “optinism” – uncertainty can be turned into a certainty of progress and success.

What makes me think so? Is this belief coincidental? Well, as a 38-year-old Lebanese citizen, I’ve witnessed more than the typical share of daily dilemmas and economic disasters, but I’ve also witnessed firsthand how resilience, persistence and positive thinking can be the key for overcoming any crisis.