As the New Year looms, some concerned economic forecasters have pictured a doom and gloom scenario for 2011 and beyond. And some even have hard data in their fearless proclamations.
Although I understand their pessimism, I always look at the bright, hopeful side. For years, our civilization has been bombarded with doomsday forecasts. But humanity has survived and thrived through countless economic upheavals.
Unknown to these forecasters, humanity enjoys innate resiliency and creativity. Regardless of problems, solutions always come to the fore.
Below, you’ll find six basic ways to navigate these difficult times and endure upcoming storms.
Enjoy the moment
Uncertainty elicits fear and anxiety of the unknown. Focus on the moment. Enjoy every second and minute of your being. Make your life as comfortable as possible. Gusty winds, foggy roads, wet driveways, cold weather — they’re all part of human existence. You need to appreciate, or at the very least, accept whatever discomfort that comes with them.
The only choice is to cherish the only time we actually own — the present. Having declared this, relishing golden memories with loved ones and creating a path for the future should revive your excitement of the NOW.
Set goals
Enjoying the present doesn’t mean not preparing for the future; it doesn’t mean having a complacent attitude about what’s ahead and what’s to come. Facing any future, unknown challenges require meticulous preparation.
Plan to succeed in your personal and professional life. Thrive in this volatile economic environment through constant training. Know what jobs or courses are in demand five to ten years from now. And pursue one that you’re passionate about. Also, set realistic goals on how to make your family happier and healthier.
Love your work
Job security keeps us sane in these tumultuous times. Without it, apprehension just deepens. Love your work, despite all the complex details, false rumors, and dirty politics that float around. Show your kindness and respect, despite the complicated and at times weird personalities you deal with daily. After all, no one is perfect.
At work, always walk the extra mile. Be more efficient and organized and be passionate in what you do. Have a positive attitude and always learn from your customers and co-workers. Develop new ways of delivering better and faster services. Despite busy schedule, be enthusiastic. Smile so everyone will smile with you.
Manage your finances
After the busy and costly shopping spree of the holiday season, it’s vital to manage your finances. Certainly, it’s good to give if you have extra funds to share. But borrowing money for the sake of giving is damaging to ones credit score and mental health.
Excessive, unmindful spending can only cause unnecessary anxiety and stress later on. Develop a manageable budget. Make sure the money you earn exceeds your expenses. Prioritize your family needs before aiming for the next IPad, Plasma TV, ATV, and other toys.
Appreciate everything you have
Value your friends despite differences. Treasure everything you have — your home, your job, your health. Come to grips with your looks, even if you lament its appearance before. Remember, it’s your outlook that counts and nothing can beat the beauty that evolves from within. Appreciate every little thing that you own — both old and new. After all, they have an imprint of who you are.
Love your family unconditionally. While friends, co-workers, and neighbors come and go, family members are yours to keep forever. At your blissful moments, they’re ready to share your joy. During difficult times, they’re around to soothe your pain.
The New Year’s uncertainty may paralyze and numb those who are not prepared. It’s therefore essential to focus on simple things that have major impact on how we approach life. Facing the challenges of the future requires going back to the basics, to the core of who we are as human beings.
May we be blessed in the year 2011!