Keep up with technology. Take workshops, upgrade or replace your computer or buy a digital phone. In downtimes, when you need to conserve finances, you'll be glad you made these investments. Continue your education. Keeping up with technology is not the only thing you need to be up to speed.
Professional fields change rapidly and it's important to stay ahead.
It's equally important to know what's hot now, and what's coming ahead so that you can keep abreast of new and emerging opportunities in your area. Develop communication and negotiation skills. When the downtimes come, you'll need both skills to land a new position or to advance the one you have. Nurture your relationships and networks. You may need these, too, for support as well as leads and contacts.