McGraw-Hill predicts a 6% increase in overall construction spending for 2013. That follows a likely 5% increase from 2012, so the trend continues positive. Unfortunately, that 6% increase would take us to a total US construction spending of $484B, 25% below the 2007 spending of $641B and well below the 2008 spending of $559B.

A fascinating aspect of the recovery is it’s unevenness. Single family housing gained 27% in 2012 and is projected to gain 24% in 2013. On the other hand, institutional and public works will likely fall.

Of course, the recovery varies widely of geography as well. So look carefully at what you build, for whom, and where you build it. You may be able to change one of those variables and substantially change your outcome.

Don’t do the same thing over and over and expect a different outcome. Take some time to think, then have the courage to change something.