Panic, over react, follow the leader, discount like crazy, dissipate your brand equity, and in the name of survival do some truly daft things. Sounds crazy, but look around.

We are living in a world no one could have imagined even twelve months ago. The banking and investment banking industries are struggling to survive years of reckless management. The US auto industry—at least GM and Chrysler—are now under the “guidance” of the federal government and the “big three” are a passing memory. The world has morphed in very uncomfortable ways and our confidence is shot. We are left angry and scared.

Except a few, who see the re-ordering of business as a golden opportunity. To capitalize, they know they must move quickly. People who will succeed in these times have compelling vision that engages employees, suppliers, and customers and accelerates change. Speed of action will determine who grows. Trying to move quickly without vision and engagement is a car wreck about to happen.

In the car business, Ford is a good example of how renewed vision leads to engagement which now drives speed of change in their business. They are on a roll.

Can you say the same about your business?