Surviving the economic crunch will take perseverance, endurance and patience. Many individuals are experiencing the first hand effects of this recession. People have lost their jobs, portions of retirement, and watched the value of their homes plummet.
Many people may be asking “Where do I go from here?” I’d be happy to tell you. Only the strong survive. You have one of two choices. You could either give up or you can keep moving. In the face of adversity, I know it is difficult, but if you want to retain your dreams and aspirations, you must choose to be the victor not the victim.
Look at what you have
Before you look at what you don’t have anymore, look at what you still have. Maybe you work less hours or don’t have as much in savings. The good part is that you still have something. This is a blessing. No matter how bad things are, they could always be worse. Take a sheet of paper and list the things you have. They could be anything from talents to skills that you possess. Valuables are not always tangible.
Get Back up
You can only survive if you get back up. You’ve been knocked down financially, but you only lose when you stay down. Get back in the game by applying for jobs and revising your resume. You can do this. Go on as many job interviews as possible. Dress the part.
Create Money
Even in a recession there is money to be made and having a job is not the only way to make it. Within each person lies a market waiting to be tapped into. Create money by finding your niche. Find something you enjoy doing that people will be willing to pay you for. For example, I read about a women who loved cooking so much that she made a “side hustle” out of it. She started catering for people’s parties and gatherings. She made enough money to pay off her bills every month. Market yourself through Craigslist or free classified ad sites. Put up fliers and make sure to spread the word. You never know who your friends could tell.
Build up your Emergency Reserve
In times like these, it never hurts to have a back up plan. Build up a one year reserve that will sustain you and your family through difficult times like this. The equivalent to an annual salary and more is sufficient.
Surround yourself with positive people
Positive energy is contagious. Being around people who see the glass as half full will rub off on you. This is because people motivate us one way or another. It could be in a good way or bad way. If you are around people who are optimistic, you will begin to see your life differently.
Choose to be a better than the current situation. Rise above it by being proactive. Surround yourself with positive things and tell yourself everyday that you can do what ever you put your mind to. There is a light at the end of this economic tunnel.