While on our road to recovery, do not waste a good recession. This is an appropriate time to return to school, plan your financial future and hold on to your dreams. To be self-actualised, it can be fulfilling to make achieving your goals and dreams a priority. Your time will be well spent developing a road map to making your dreams a reality.

One of the best investments you can make is in yourself. Try to be aligned with others who can assist you with this quest and make it your life's goal to help others to also accomplish their dreams. We should make it a habit to edify each other. As unlikely as it may seem, if you help others to win, you will not lose.

Jamaican companies like the Jamaica National Building Society (JNBS) assist customers who are less fortunate. According to Earl Jarrett, general manager, "The JNBS Foundation leads philanthropic projects that are aimed at building partnerships and changing lives across Jamaica." He added that through collaborations with various civil society organisations, private sector entities and public agencies, the foundation implements several technology, youth, community, education and health-based projects annually.

Tips for coping

1. To achieve and maintain success, find your area of excellence and make it a habit to develop your talent.

2. Celebrate your accomplishments, love yourself and be thankful for everything.

3. Identify a cause and contribute your time or money.

Meaningful Collaboration

We are currently celebrating June as Caribbean Month in the United States. However, the Jamaican community in Atlanta has the challenge of harnessing the strength that exists in their numbers. According to Glen Laman, president of the Kingston College Old Boys' Association, Georgia chapter, "Atlanta undoubtedly has the highest number of Caribbean organisations per capita of any major metro area, and the reality is that we all need the support of each other to survive. While not immediately obvious, supporting the efforts of others, rather than diminishing it, actually enhances what you are trying to accomplish."

Laman who is also the founding editor of the school's newsletter, the KC Times, is living proof of this sentiment as he continues to profile many Jamaicans who are making a mark on the Atlanta community. He also keeps the community informed about the schedule of events of various Caribbean organisations. Laman uses the Internet to recognise and value the contributions of individuals and organisations throughout the Caribbean, collaborating with them and lending support wherever possible. He continues to encourage the Jamaican community to work together and has also developed a scholarship fund to assist KC students in Jamaica.

Collaborating with Jamaicans in the diaspora can have positive results as we remember the: What What What Approach to Success - What you do with what you have determines what you become.

Elaine Grant Bryan is an empowerment speaker, Georgia Leadership Sandy Springs Gradate 2009, recipient of Mayor Shirley Franklin Phoenix and Judge Glenda Hatchett awards for service to Atlanta, Real Estate Expert on HGTV and Fine Living Channels. Send feedback and questions to elaine@elainebryan.com