As we approach the end of 2008, many are wondering what 2009 may bring. Surely this time last year most of us never imagined what was about to happen in the year ahead.

Many will be glad 2008 will soon be history.  Others are bewildered at the prospects for 2009. How about a return to a simple concept, a commitment to continuous improvement?

Regardless of what 2009 brings us, personally or corporately, we need to be our best to deal with it. If you are responsible for influencing the growth and development of people, I hope you will consider every possible way to optimize the talent in your organization.

Let's agree to begin with ourselves. Become the model for others to look to and the exemplar of what is possible. How many books did you read in 2008?  How many personal and professional experiences did you have? 

What about the year ahead? Consider joining your own private book of the month club and stay up on what is relevant to your industry, profession or appropriate for your own continuous improvement. What learning opportunities are on your calendar for 2009?  How many should be there?  Will you let budgets determine how good you want to be a year from now?

Remember that continuous learning is the only competitive advantage. Please let me know what you think about it?

Enthusiastically,

Bob