Winston Churchill said, "A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." During these difficult economic times, have you found your opportunity?

Recessions give birth to business. A recent report from the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation found more than half of the companies on the 2009 Fortune 500 list started during a recession. Many people who have been laid off from their corporate careers are looking for their next opportunity. I think we all realize there is no security in big business, and many people are excited about controlling their own income by opening their own business.

Buying a franchise is a great way to start your business. The foundation of franchising is teamwork. Each individual opens his or her business but has the advantage of discounts from suppliers for bulk purchasing from the entire franchise system. Marketing dollars of each unit are pulled together to make a greater impact, and each franchise owner has access to a corporate team to advise and support him or her throughout the years. Franchise units tend to be more profitable and more successful than similar non-franchise units because of this.

Warren Buffet said, "A recession is a terrible thing to waste." As our economy is starting to recover, now more than ever may be the best time to open your doors to your business. Take advantage of lower rental rates, the competitive market of your suppliers and the quality work force available right now. Don't let your opportunity pass you by.