My New Blog

Yes, the economy is hurting and uncertainty abounds.  It is easy to get discouraged but there is no reason to stay that way.  There is always a "silver lining" in negative situations and this current economic downturn just may be changing your life for the better.

First, eighty-five percent of the population now eat at least three meals a week at home and eat out much less.  When you cook your own meals, you spend more time with your family and eat healthier, with smaller portions and fresh ingredients.  We are all doing ourselves a favor towards better health.

Many have lost their jobs or are in fear of doing so.  Getting laid off is frightening, but career advisers say many of their clients are finding that this is just the "kick in the pants" they needed to try a new industry, take a class, or start a new business.  Indeed, a forced career change can be a good thing.  Harry S. Truman jumped into politics after the clothing store he ran went bankrupt!  We all have talents and passions that can be rekindled when forced into it.

We are  learning to do with much less.  People are saving more and spending less and learning to live within their means, which is the way we should have been living all along.  Many consumers are now putting away about 4% of their income in savings compared with basically nothing just a year ago.

People are shopping smarter and greener.  Consumers are buying less and opting for used and recycled goods more often.  Re-sale stores and consignment shops are brisk with business, up about 34% from last year.  There are great buys to be had here, with many items like new and hardly used!  It is an adventure to shop here and look for "treasures."

Yes, there are still companies and industries that are booming.  People seem to be escaping negativity with books and movies.  Amazon.com sales were up 18% in the first quarter of 2009, and Netflix movie rentals gained 25% more subscribers  this past year.  McDonald's sales are soaring and so are other fast food chains that are offering bargain prices or free items. 

So, even in the darkest of times, there are many ways to stay positive:

You may not be able to control market conditions, but you can become a fighter and overcomer instead of a victim.

Instead of being disappointed about where you are, make the decision to be optimistic about where you are going, and create a positive vision for the future.

Tune out the negative voices and start making positive choices.  Do something daily to grow yourself.

Turn complaining into appreciation and acknowledge that life is a gift - not an obligation.  When we practice gratitude, we get a measurable boost in happiness that energizes us and enhances our health.

Sometimes we have to look hard for that "silver lining" but it is always there.