An extended downturn will also increase the risk of the crisis expanding and deepening far beyond its current spread.

In a downturn when your ad dollars get restricted, you move them into areas that are more direct and measurable.

"The fact that we have had this downturn doesn' t obscure the fact that it's a very promising business model, " he said.

Are your assets lower because you' re spending more than you' re earning or because of an external factor like a market downturn?

So if you want to come through this downturn with flying colors -- and maybe even a promotion or a raise -- you need to think positive.