This will increase the odds that you are taken seriously and that your message finds a place in front of a larger audience.

FORBES: Make It Engaging! -Media Training

Biden's support of stem cell research is at odds with the position taken by the Republicans' vice presidential nominee, Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, whose 5-month-old son, Trig, has Down syndrome.

CNN: Biden's comments on special needs kids called 'new low'

Mr Justice Treacy said this appeared to be "at odds" with the view taken by an American judge who reviewed the material and concluded it should be handed over.

BBC: Boston College tapes: 'writer under no increased threat'

The idea of striking out on your own, accepting a significant amount of risk, betting on yourself to succeed like Bill Gates despite the odds against you, is not a decision to be taken lightly.

FORBES: Six Questions To Ask Before Dropping Out Of College To Become An Entrepreneur

Now that the bet has been taken, the best onlookers can do is hope that it somehow beats the odds.

ECONOMIST: The Bank of Japan