As we continue through the painfully slow economic recovery with escalating anger and impatience, it is time to remember the importance of laughter and hope. As a communications consultant, I know that if you can make someone laugh during your day, you earn their gratitude.

I’ve been through enough bad economies on both coasts to know the experts don’t have crystal balls.  How many predicted accurately in the boom times that the excesses of the market would lead to such worldwide havoc?  And if we look back a year from now, how many would have been accurate on the rate of recovery?

The answer is that it is the strength and optimism of the American culture that keeps pulling us out of the latest disaster.  For me, the secret to that optimism has been involvement in my Brooklyn community and in organizations like NAWBO-NYC, Team Women and Connecting to Greatness, whose leaders are forging ahead with entrepreneurial zeal.  Their energy keeps refueling my own enthusiasm.

For more inspiration, I suggest reading a few books to keep your eye on the future, not riveted on the current headlines.

Black and White Strike Gold by Sandi Webster and Peggy McHale is “the essential manual for creating and running a successful business,” and includes a brutally honest look at the daily trials, tribulations and–oh yes, the joys–of being a small business owner.  The Fearless Factor: Overcome the Fears, Doubts, and Anxieties that Stop you from being your Best Self Now by Jacqueline Wales, shows you how to turn off your fear and turn on the confidence.  Laughter, Tears, Silence: Expressive Meditations to Calm Your Mind and Open Your Heart by Pragito Dove is “full of rich lessons in the nature of living a great life.”

Now smile!