"Are we there yet?" The child's question that annoys parents on a long trip is currently the main preoccupation of media and general conversation regarding the recession.

Waiting until things get as bad as they can -- until the recession bottoms out -- before you expect good times and great things to happen sets you up for disappointment on many levels.

Perhaps you've reached your recession low right now and could begin the climb to solid financial ground, but you're still waiting til we get "there." If you feel the worst still lies ahead for the economy, which jobs, services or products do you intend to get behind to take advantage of your ability to see the future? When it comes to real estate, down markets mean buying opportunities, so are you investigating possibilities in the neighbourhoods that were out of reach during the boom?

Waiting for the recession to stop deepening, seems linked to waiting for things to "return to normal." There's no going back and there's no "normal" any more. We are all moving forward. Forward and down in too many areas right now, but forward none the less. The only directions that matter now are onward and upward, and they are both better than backward.

Inspiration is all around you. The good financial advice that you may have ignored before the meltdown, still makes good sense today. I remind you that this site is chock full of terrific, practical ideas for improving your financial security. This column "Decisions & Communities" is one of many resources written entirely to help you:

• In January 2008, we called a "heads up," before the economic axe fell, and that information is still useful: Recession Proofing Starts Now

• Continually strengthening your position remains strong advice: Start Acting "Recession" to Escape the Worst

• Were you among those who heeded the 2007 knowledge warning? If not, why not now? Financial Literacy & Wealth-building: It's About How Much You Keep

Team UP for Momentum Independence, financial and otherwise, does not mean going it alone or knowing it all. When it comes to real estate ownership, individual strength thrives on confident decision making and on participation in a network of knowledgeable professionals and proficient neighbours.

• Anticipate and Benefit: If your mortgage is up for renewal this year, don't wait until the last minute to investigate options. Look beyond your lender's marketing literature to make your decision. Local real estate professionals know which type of financing can help a sale, and which might cause problems or expense if you want to keep your resale options open. Financial advisors and long-time property owners who understand mortgages may also contribute useful strategies. If a group of property owners ready for renewal approached a mortgage broker would they all benefit from lower rates and better terms? How can you strengthen your negotiating power if you don't ask?

• Use Your Voice: Instead of waiting to hear what governments will decide for you, email or facebook your elected politicians and tell them what you think and what you know must be avoided. Don't wait until taxes are raised and inflation appears. Rouse municipal politicians and local academics and make sure your community is on the leading edge of economic strengthening.

• Shop Around for Value: Banks are not the only local lenders to consider. Credit unions serve their members and their communities—a refreshing change from traditional lenders. This "helping hand" instead of "hand out" approach may be what you need to rev up your financial engine and save on fees in the process.

• Stretch Your Reach, But Not Your Budget: Buying on one or on one-and-a-half incomes still makes sense for couples. Taking in boarders or students can also carry you over a financial hurdle. Check out tenancy laws, zoning bylaws, insurance, and, for condominiums, owner restrictions before you plunge in. Buying with others or purchasing an income-generating property may also give your lending power a boost. An experienced mortgage broker can explain the advantages and pitfalls.

• Sellers and Buyers Demand Details Previous fast-paced markets made everyone sloppy. Sales anxiety had sellers and buyers acting on verbal assurances and vague number crunching. There's plenty of time now for a thorough look at market details and at the alternatives of renting for both buyers and sellers . Experienced real estate professionals can walk you through all the options open to you for buying or selling, now or down the road. This time, you'll have time to really digest the details without getting financial heartburn.

Against The Odds: In coming columns, we'll share your resourceful, practical responses to hard times. What did you accomplish against the odds? How do you "have your home and money too"? Which battles are you fighting now? Together we can accelerate the Onward & Upward climb. Confidentiality protected. Email your individual or neighbourhood story direct to me: pjwade@TheCatalyst.com.