5. Hunker down. It might take longer than you hope to get back to a safe and prosperous place. If that appears to be the case, you may need to hunker down and plan your next movements. For mortgage brokers, this could mean reconnecting with old friends or joining networking groups.

6. Avoid new dangers. The woods are full of predators, and it's possible to end up in more trouble as you move forward. Brokers should watch their step, stay educated and do their best to anticipate the next round of trouble.

7. Master your emotions. It's not going to be easy, but you can't let yourself get down or stay down emotionally. Part of the art of survival is to try to make it a game. If you keep pressing on, each day can include small victories.

Bear Grylls has been lost too many times to count. That, however, doesn't keep him from going back out. In much the same way, today's troubles shouldn't keep mortgage brokers from pursuing their passion for real estate finance. Survival makes us stronger.

Mark Anthony McCray is CEO of Houston-based First Capital Commercial Finance (www.dealsdone.net) and an associate with Managed Mortgage Investment Fund (www.privatemortgagefinancing.com). First Capital is a commercial mortgage-banking firm that has helped its clients leverage millions of dollars in financing for their real estate acquisitions, developments and investments. MMIF is a direct lender specializing in short-term private mortgage financing and investments. Contact McCray at mark@dealsdone.net or (832) 566-2001. You can find him online at www.markanthonymccray.com.

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