Think Big - Start NOW

As pilots we start off with a basic Private Pilot's license.

And just like Karate, there are stages to a pilot's success.

Instrument Rating; Commercial Rating; Multi-Engine Rating; all of the instructor ratings, and finally the coveted Airline Transport Rating - the big one, the one that allows you to make a real career out of flying and possibly the big bucks.

For every takeoff, there is a landing. For each prosperous run for the airlines, there is a downswing and that downswing is never in the pilot's control.

The difference between thriving in the downturns is having a backup plan, a checklist you can rely on.

After 9/11, I had less than three weeks to figure out where my next paycheck was going to come from.

So, I started small, secured a freelance writing contract and signed up for real estate school.

Those small steps are still paying big dividends today.

“The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.” – Chinese Proverb.

The best time to start adding income to your bottom line was yesterday. The next best time is today.

Think big - long term dividends and income, but start small. Take that first step.