Economy and Life

Weekly Question # 5: A question from Teacher Julie from her GreenBucks Blog: “Let’s try to be a little practical and wise and philosophical this week and answer this question:

What lies ahead for me (and my family) during these tough times? Do we know where we are heading?”

Oil is $142.00 per barrel today. We don’t really know what lies ahead in our future, I mean who does? US Consumer confidence is really low right now and that translates to people not buying stuff. When no one buys then companies cannot sell products then they’ll have to cut more jobs. But to put things in perspective, the economy was good only artificially for a long time. People have been spending money that they really didn’t have(more than $900 billion in outstanding card debt), and it’s only now that the credit situation has gotten out of hand. If you are a US consumer and would like to help about the credit card issue, read up on Suze Orman’s thoughts and write to your law makers.

As for my family, we have done what we can to cut back. No home improvement projects this spring. But of course we cannot totally not spend, we buy our necessities from Costco and Walmart so it’s no surprise to hear that while other companies are reporting losses, these two companies are doing well amidst the slow economy.

We have to drive to get to places around here since public transport is not feasible. I personally don’t drive around just for the heck of it. My daughter and I have been walking to and from the pool and library since both are walking distance. I do recommend it because it’s not just to save on gas but it’s to get people to get some exercise.

Thinking about the present economy gives me a headache! But worrying is something to do without getting anything done(I forgot who originally said that), the only result is anxiety attacks. I know it’s easier said than done but I try hard to think positive. It doesn’t do any good to think doom and gloom is upon us because it makes matters worse.