Many of us know the impact of a failing economy after the recent economic crisis in 2008. The economy is like gravity: it only goes so far before it collapses. Although it seems to take most of us by surprise, we should expect it and be prepared for it. Failure to do so is critical to our financial well-being.

Physicist Isaac Newton built capitalized on the fall of an apple, which was simply due to an act of gravity. We all now know, thanks to Newton’s work, that what goes up must come down. Failing to prepare for the demise of a failing economy is inexcusable, as is failing to understand that when an economy spirals downward, that is indeed the best time to capitalize on it and be handsomely rewarded.

Ironically, in the 1990s we had another story involving Apple, Newton, and gravity. Before the late Steve Jobs rejoined Apple and took the helm as CEO, Apple seemed to be on the fast track in a downward spiral, as if gravity had brought it to its lowest point. This was around the time he released a portable product called “Newton”. But in a downward spiral come some of the best moneymakers and, true to form, Apple continued from its tailspin to earth with big ideas including the iMac, iPod, iPhone and iPad.

So it seems that when gravity pulls us down, we should not despair: there are always ways to get to the top with great ideas, and lucrative ones too.

So how do you continue to prosper rather than just survive in times of economic trouble?

Here are five tips:

1. Stay positive and focused while everything is crashing down around you.
2. Get comfortable with the fact that if you have fallen to the bottom, the only way you can get up is up.
3. Know that those in difficult times seek guidance and help; if you can help others you will be rewarded. Be the one to offer a solution when you only see problems.
4. A failing economy is not a waste of money but a transfer of money from those with problems to those with solutions.
5. Even in a down economy, there are still plenty of people looking for and willing to pay for information on:
   • Health
   • Wealth
   • wisdom
   • Love

The next time you see an apple fall due to the force of gravity, remember that there are many great ideas that can follow. Don’t let a declining economy be an excuse for why you’re struggling to start your new business or thrive in your established business.