Tough financial times abound. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 427.47 points, or 5.1 percent, to 7997.28, its lowest close since March 31, 2003. The market is down 43.5 percent from its all-time high just over a year ago. These numbers require strong analysis.

During tough financial periods, tough financial strategies are employed. This is done with attitudinal shifts and by paying attention to financial positioning. Tough financial periods require contemplation to conjure up ideas to reduce the severity of conditions that thwart financial progression.

A capitalistic economy operates like this: When you win, I lose. When I win, you lose. These sets of mantras undergird the movement of market sectors and, to an extent, promote financial inequality. Patiently observe and learn about capitalistic risks.

But wrote English mathematician and physicist Sir Isaac Newton (1642-1727): "If I have made any valuable discoveries, it has been owing more to patient attention, than to any other talent. Curiosity propels movement and action. Develop financial mantras.

French author Jules Verne (1828-1905) wrote: "Anything one man can imagine, other men can make real." Verne forecast the invention of airplanes, submarines, television, guided missiles and satellites ... and with amazing accuracy. Observations by Verne's imagination became his realities.

There are opportunities for investors to capitalize on during the current economic downturn. In dealing with the energy crisis, investors must play convincing roles in dealing with wind, solar, green buildings, smart grids, biofuels and clean transport. Market sectors do not find favor with too much uncertainty.

Here are seven suggestions to deal with situational but common oxymorons in financial matters:

1. Use financial risks to balance portfolios, with both expectations of making profits and cutting loses. Conduct these strategies advantageously.

2. Strike while the iron is hot. The iron is hot when attention is given to data analysis based on reliable information. How safe are investments in "BRIC" countries Brazil, Russia, India and China?

3. Play the odds for financial footage and gain. Play the long odds, too.

4. Operate in a survival mode. Said American deaf and blind lecturer Helen Keller (1880-1968): "We can do anything we want to do if we stick to it long enough."

5. Confront messy financial situations head-on. You are your new boss.

6. Encourage friends, acquaintances and family members to seek doorways they might be reluctant to enter. There are success-related testimonials waiting to be heard.

7. Gain personal and spiritual strength through meditation and contemplation. Amen.

The world is very cooperative with those who try and try again to deal with financial realities. Wrote American educator and author Booker T. Washington (1856-1915): "The world cares very little about what a man or woman knows; it is what the man or woman is able do." Observe and pay attention to varying financial situations.

Reach T&D Columnist Howard D. Hill, Ph.D., via www.educationconsultant@sc.rr.com

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