It's 2009, and I would like nothing better than to spend my time soaking in a warm tub watching back-to-back episodes of “Top Chef.”

According to psychotherapist and organizational consultant Joan Westreich, that's exactly what I should be doing — at least part of the time. “No matter the maelstrom swirling around you, difficult times demand a commitment to extreme self-care,” she says in our interview beginning on page 9. But Westreich also warns against retreating into a “bunker” mentality. Like it or not, you, your departments, and your meetings are being intensely scrutinized — by your companies and by the public.

What can you do? Turn to page 16 for our cover story by Alison Hall on how to how to step up to the challenges, adapt to changing times, and get your seat at the table in 2009.

Survival Checklist

With a wink to Letterman, here's my 2009 Top Ten list for financial and insurance planners:

10. Sustainability

Don't be fooled by the late 2008 drop in oil prices; our future depends on sustainable solutions. Keep moving forward with your green meetings and travel initiatives.

9. Creativity

When times get tough, the best planners get creative. You'll find opportunities you didn't know existed.

8. Community

Now more than ever, reaching out to colleagues and business partners will help you to find synergies and solutions. We're all in this together.

7. Technology

From social networking to Web conferences, technology is an indispensable tool for 2009. Learn it and use it. (Go to meetingsnet.com for our meetings tech resource guide.)

6. Education

Both your professional continuing ed and your attendees' education agendas are critical to your success. Business content, not boondoggles, is the mantra for meetings in 2009.

5. Big Picture

Think strategically, not just logistically. It's the path to finding new ideas, and it's your path up the career ladder.

4. Return on Investment

You've got to crunch the numbers to prove the value of your meetings and your department.

3. Regulatory Reform

In December, Mary Shapiro, formerly the head of the Financial & Insurance Regulatory Authority, was chosen to head the Securities and Exchange Commission. A new era of regulatory reform is about to begin, and your meetings will not be immune.

2. Perception

In 2009, image is everything. Even the appearance of impropriety where none exists will get you and your meetings into the hot seat.

1. Humor

Laughter is the best way to pull out of the dumpster. That's why we end every issue with a humorous essay by Dale Irvin. For “Nostradales” month-by-month 2009 predictions — I am particularly cheered by thoughts of a car that runs on cellulite — turn to page 48.

Here's to all of you in 2009.

Join the conversation and let us know how you are staying strong and strategic this year. E-mail me at rbaraban@meetingsnet.com.