With the mounting anticipation of the inauguration of Barack Obama I can't help but notice how he is managing the expectations of the American people and, in fact, the world. Let's take a page out of his playbook this week and see how it applies to business.

The following quotes are not direct quotes from the incoming President, but rather my interpretation of his recent messages and the script that perhaps you can use with your team.

"Ladies and gentlemen, we are in trying times, the likes of which we haven't seen in our lifetime. The road ahead is uncertain and it is probably going to get worse before it gets better. I don't want that to discourage you, but rather inspire you to continue on this journey with me. Here's why..."

"Each and every one of you is critical to our success and I am depending on your commitment, your creativity, your sacrifice, and your willingness to change. With all of us working toward one common goal, we WILL succeed...of that I am certain."

"I cannot and will not promise anything that is beyond my control. But I will promise you my support, my unwavering determination toward a successful future, and my commitment to change so that we come out better and more competitive in the end."

"All of the things we have done or planned to do in the past may not happen when and as we discussed. We are going to have to alter our priorities and focus on the things that are truly important and will have the greatest impact on our immediate success. This does not mean I am giving up on the dream. We will accomplish our goals together and as consumer confidence returns, we will pursue more new and innovative projects."

"Above all I value the people of this organization. Without you we would not be the company we are. Some of our team members are no longer with us, but it does not mean we don't value the contribution they made and wish them well on their journey. My energy today has to be about you because you are the team working for us now. Together we will rebuild and grow." [this particular quote is only for situations where down-sizing has been part of the recent history of the company]

These are just a few scripts that I would challenge you to try on for size. Could you (with modification of course) say these things to the people who you supervise? What do you think their reaction will be? What is the outcome you are looking for?

I titled this Tip "Pygmalion is Alive and Well" for a reason. People really DO live into your expectations. If you project doom and gloom, a loss of confidence, and fear about the future then you will see everyone around you live into that vision.

If, however, you are honest and straightforward while projecting hope, confidence, trust, and a positive vision; likewise, they will live into that vision, too.

These are the questions you need to ask yourself before you write your own script.

1. What do I want my team, my department, my division, or my company to look like one year from today?

2. What will it take in terms of human resource support to make that happen?

3. Are there things I must do (like finding capital, deeper cuts, or changing personnel) that are necessary to remove barriers for our combined success?

4. What sacrifices am I willing to make to get us there?

While no one can deny we are in turbulent times, these are also very exciting times. It is in challenging times that true entrepreneurs excel. Dig deep and find those creative reserves that inspired you when you first started your journey in business. Throw off the blanket of doom and look for the silver lining...then share it with the people you count on most.

There is no question that out of adversity comes some of the best things in life. Is this going to be your best year ever? I hope so!