I am usually in this position myself. This is simply due to the fact that you are tight early.

You need to get agressive with the little chips you have an win some coinflips. Thats all there is to it. I think this sucks, and that is why I have been playing more early, getting involved and seeing some flops. I am still tight/agressive, but without and early game you cannot reach your max. ROI, IMHO.