Some of these have a longer lead time relative to economic activity than others, so the firm publishes both a longer leading index, which signals changes in activity about a year in advance, and a shorter leading index, which looks six months ahead.

ECONOMIST: Leading economic indicators

So, Amex needs less capital relative to its charge activity because fewer of the purchases turn into loans.

FORBES: Banking Weighs Heavily On American Express' Stock

Whether tax rate increases are totally self-defeating or only partially so, their cost in reduced economic activity is high relative to tax revenue gained.

FORBES: Gradually Curbing Spending Beats Cold-Turkey Option

Also, this would help narrow the price gap between existing and new homes, which would encourage new construction activity as the relative attractiveness of new homes improves.

FORBES: Time for Solutions

The momentum in e-commerce activity makes shares a relative bargain, he thinks.

FORBES: ValueClick Looks Attractive Despite Rocky January

In short, fewer fire sale foreclosed properties on the market will narrow the price differential between those and new homes, which will increase the relative attractiveness of new homes, thus stimulating construction activity.

FORBES: Coming To America

While goals are not necessary for activity or even productivity, they provide us with a relative standard against which to measure the effectiveness of our efforts, aiding us in the elusive quest for fulfillment.

FORBES: Don't Be A Slave To Circumstance -- Set Goals