We are in a time where people who never experienced unemployment during their adult lives are now left jobless.

Yet even in these trying times, people are dealing with adversity and making things happen. Some are using their idle time to pursue ideas they've always had for inventions.

The number of people actively involved in invention is up 20% year over year, according to The Los Angeles Times.

Now, you might look at our well-developed economy and say, "We have so many gadgets already. How could someone possibly come up with a new idea?" Yet the opportunities for improving the way we do things are virtually endless precisely because our economy is so developed.

For example, look at the world of handheld video cameras. This is an arena that's dominated by large Japanese manufacturers. How could anyone possibly get a toehold in that kind of market?

Enter the makers of the Flip video camera, which starts at $100. They simplified the camera to the point that even Clark's 3-year-old son can use it. The Flip was even named one of the best inventions of 2008 by Time magazine.

And now the founders of the Flip have sold the company for $600 million! Of course, not every inventor will do this well, but the opportunity is out there.

Clark recommends Nolo.com for a low-cost way to help obtain a patent.