Surf's up for new year.

• Position: YOUR LIFE - Brief article

It is time to clear the slate and move forward to turn 2006 into a productive time no matter what surprises are in store for us, suggests Frank F. Lunn, president and chief executive officer, Kahuna Empowerment, Inc., Bloomington, Ill., and author of Carpe Aqualis! Seize the Wave: 7 Essential Surfing Skills to Revolutionize Your Business and Personal Life.

Lunn maintains that individuals can S.U.R.F. their way to well-being in the New Year by:

Surveying the situation without emotion. What new opportunities might be found or developed in the months ahead? It might be tempting to look back at last year's mishaps and worry that similar events will unfold again, so take a step back to gain perspective since it is possible to find blessings even in adversities.

Understanding your options. After you know where you are, begin to assess options for moving forward. Focus only on solutions. Ask questions like: "What can I gain from these economic realities?" or "What contacts can I make in the changing political...