I've recently attended a Wood Badge training course.  During this training, a small group, a patrol, is charged with different challenge tasks.  During early stages we have the opportunity to discover the occupations and hobbies of your group.  It is surprising what skills one has that can be of benefit to the group when a new challenge is thrust upon the group.
  We quickly identify the problem points in the challenge and then each person can volunteer or be appointed to attack the goal.  Proper application of skills usually results in superior results.  We usually placed first in competitions; best presentation, highest rocket or reporting progress ahead of deadlines.
  In business, we are constantly facing with changing challenges.  What resources are available from team members, friends or acquaintances that might help in solving problems.  Others are often pleased to help.  They feel pleased that you asked and can help or point you to someone who can.
  Another benefit is building up IOUs.  I like to pay forward.  I go out of my way to help customers, vendors, and organizations.  Later, when I need a little help, they are pleased to reciprocate.   
  The other day, I was at a CoC business expo and met a wealth adviser.  As it turns out, he has golf outings for potential clients instead of lunches/dinners.  I have a customer, Nags Head Golf Links.  He really liked the idea and I will assist him in starting such activities at his location.  What's in it for me?  The wealth adviser finds a new potential cluster of clients and the golf course gets more customers in the afternoon, where he needs it.    I think both will stay w/me as a customer.  So, pay it forward.

Yesterday, I went to Bayport Scout Reservation to cut the grass at some ceremonial rings. Before a service weekend, we need to prepare the area by cutting and trimming the grass to create an attractive environment.
The grass had grown knee-high over the last couple of months and it took several hours to cut and weed-eat the area.  It was hot (92) and humid and we quickly became drenched in sweat.  However, when refueling we hydrate ourselves.  It's best to bear down and push forward regardless of how hot it is and how hard it is.   Then you suddenly look up and see the vast area that has been cut.  
When one pauses to refuel/hydrate, you get a chance to look around and see nature moving about.  I found that I had disturbed the natural status of the environment.  I saw lizards, spiders, worms, and moths that we scampering about to find new cover.  They were beautiful and previously unseen and now seeking a new protective cover.   When leaving we looked across the field and saw 6 wild turkeys feeding.  They can see well, hear well, run and fly fast.  They can quickly adjust to a changed environment.  What a thrill to see nature at its best.  
   This is way it is in business too.  The business world gets disturbed by a change not anticipated.  How do we adjust, can we scamper to a better environment?  Are we prepared to change the way we do business?  Do we have the right people to make the adjustment possible?    
   Is our business as well protected?  Develop the skill set and prepare for the worst while taking advantage of situations that develop.