Get BuySellPDX by emailTell me what you think. Is this current financial crisis affecting you? If so, how?
* Have you been caught in the current corporate “downsizing”? On the dole.
* Worrying about making your next house or rent payment? Cost increases.
* Have you reined in your spending? Buying less expensive beer.
* Driving your car less? Taking “stay at home vacations”.
Please take a moment and share your thoughts. Thanks, Paddo
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{ 9 comments… read them below or add one }
I am in a pretty good situation at the moment. I work in the healthcare industry and our company may be a big part of the stimulus pkg. However we are not counting on this and we did not ask for it. It is an idea that the president has to decrease healthcare costs.
I think those who are asking for help, i.e. the auto industry, should make some major sacrifices. I think those at the top should take a more than significant pay cut. Let’s say they get the same salary as our president. The other funds should be distributed among the common workers. They would most likely spend the money in the local sectors. That would help stimulate local businesses and in turn help the economy and boost confidence.
Hey Paddo, we’ve been affected by fear of losing our jobs! We’re definitely part of the problem of the downturn in spending. Knock on wood, so far the hubby & I still have jobs, but our spending habits have certainly changed. We’re saving like crazy “in case” we lose our jobs. That new car I wanted this year? Yeah, it’s on hold until next year. That vacation in AK with family? Nope, not gonna happen this year.
We in Portland have been some what lucky. We did not have the BIG balloon in housing as some other markets. I do see most people reviewing their habits and conserving to a point. We are living a very fragile economy currently, it will not take much to push it off the edge. Yet I do see most people looking at positive attitudes to make adjustments and become wiser for the better!
I’m fortunate that I’m not very affected by the financial meltdown–except when I look at my 401k and see a pretty shocking paper loss. I think that like most people, I’m not as certain that I’d be able to find a good job right away if my employment status were to change. On the other hand, I’m planning to replace the deck and windows in my house, and the cost just might be a little more affordable during the downturn.
In current economic coditions we are all effected, some people notice day to day changes and some do not. I have been noticing trends for a number of years with my career, such as out sourcing. Out sourcing to way? What is the benifit to the american people, as a whole? As soon as the consumer realizes that they have choices and improve their personal choices, issues will not change.
Fortunately, I do not feel that either of our jobs or immediate surroundings have been affected much by the downturn of the economy. Tammy and I are still employed and unlikely to loose our jobs anytime soon.
As for travel, we do not travel much but I do not feel that it has been affected since the fuel prices have dropped to somewhat normal. We go for a drive whenever we have the time.
We do not own fuel economy vehicles (Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Z71 4×4) and do not plan on purchasing one any time soon.
It’s true, looks like we are all in this together. On an individual level I would say creating a personal budget is instrumental. It gives us an idea of where our money goes and is a good start at developing a personal business plan for our future.
Now for the serious side. I think everyone has had to change their habits a bit whether it is just not driving as much, taking a lunch to work, or even postponing their retirement a few years. Hopefully the new administration will take measures to reverse the slide but it will not happen overnight. Until then it will mean a bit less for some and living at bare bones for others.
We have a great time playing our music, If Paddo works half as hard as he plays…!!!