People from all walks of life have expressed their opinions on the economic crisis that we are dealing with.  Many call it “uncalled for, ugly, the Great Depression all over again, terrorists winning the war, the result of poor government spending over the years--- the list goes on and on.  Big businesses are being funded billions of dollars from the federal government, powerhouse lenders Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae have been taken over by the U.S. government, stock market fluctuations are out of control, and people are foreclosing on their homes.  People are asking, “When will this crisis end?”  I propose to ask a better question, a question that we can address to a large extent. 

“How can we live a healthy, productive life while we weather the economic storm?”

One of the greatest keys to relieving stress in any circumstance is to have a clear perspective on the situation at hand and determine which factors are in our control to make a change.  Anything else can be dismissed from mental consideration for it is a waste of our energy that needs to be spent elsewhere.

The government announces its bailout plan and further actions to restore our broken economic situation.  Rather than depending on our country to reinstate a better picture for our lives, it is up to us to personally take charge of our situation and make some wise decisions that can help us weather through this storm.

Factors to consider for your financial growth:

·        Getting what you NEED versus splurging on what you may WANT

·        How much you SPEND versus how much you MAKE (overall)

·        Going out to eat or eating at home

·        Saving a portion of your paycheck for your future

·        Working smart versus working hard

·        Being efficient with your time at work and away from work

·        Writing down goals:  short-term and long-term

·        Diversifying your portfolio

·        Obtaining financial assistance to continue your education

·        Keeping an optimistic, positive-minded approach---remember…anything else can be flushed down the toilet!

As all politicians state:  IT’S TIME FOR A CHANGE!  Change starts with YOU!