Good luck is what happens when opportunity meets preparation. Whether you plan to change jobs in the next six months or the next six years, keeping your skills up to date works to your advantage. Even if you're not planning to leave your job, an opportunity may come up that you'd want to pursue, such as a chance for promotion or a job across town that sounds like it was made for you. And keeping on top of your profession keeps you sharp for whatever you're doing today.

Perhaps there's a computer program you could learn. Maybe a business writing course or public speaking seminar could enhance your communication skills. Would a second language or management training make you more valuable in your field?

Also, pay attention to what's happening in your company and industry. The economy, the community, employment trends and competition can affect your job and you. Ideally, you want to be able to identify and recognize career opportunities as well as obstacles. Here are some questions to help assess how secure you and your employer are:

• Where do I see myself, with my present employer, in one year?
• Do other companies offer positions comparable to mine?
• What qualifications are employers asking of recruits for positions similar to mine?
• Does my boss, or his or her position, seem secure within the organization?
• Have there been recent changes in the top management of my company?
• Is my company involved in a merger or acquisition?
• How is my company doing financially?
• How is my company doing in comparison to the competition?
• Have I received any oral or written warnings on the job?