Lighten Up About the Economy

I have long held that a sense of humor is life’s best shock absorber. That’s why I have “55 Jokes About the Recession” pinned to my bulletin board.

I rely on humor to blunt the shocking economic headlines du jour, news that could easily render a person powerless.

The economy is so bad, Hot Wheels stock is trading higher than GM.

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Feeling powerless is a terrible thing. It causes self-pity, victimization and depression. Powerless people spend their lives managing one crisis after another, reacting rather than taking action. They’re forever hoping to get ahead someday.

Some powerless personalities you might know include Eeyore and Charlie Brown. These two manage to whine, feel sorry for themselves and barely cope with life one cartoon strip at a time.

The economy is so bad, the White House turkey turned down his Thanksgiving pardon—all his wealth was in stocks, and he has nothing to live for.

Can’t you just hear Eeyore upon returning from the local Replace-A-Tail Shop, whining to Winnie the Pooh, “I just couldn’t help myself. They were on sale. I really deserve these after all I’ve been through.” 

It’s so bad, the Lone Ranger sold his silver bullets on eBay.

Charlie Brown can be heard muttering to himself, “How can I save any money? I don’t have a good job. My clothes are ugly and I don’t have any friends.”

What these little guys lack is power, commitment and a serious obligation to reach a personal goal.

Write it down. Your commitment must be clear and measurable. A commitment “to handle my money better” won’t work. What will work is, “I will pay my rent on time every month” or, “I commit to saving $100 per week into my Contingency Fund.” These are easily described and measurable commitments.

The economy is so bad, I bought a toaster oven and my free gift with purchase was a bank.

Create a plan. Strategy is key to accomplishing anything worthwhile. Once you have set your goal, visualize reaching it by seeing the steps you need to take.

The economy’s so bad, Exxon-Mobil laid off 25 Congressmen.

Give yourself a deadline. Zig Ziglar, the great motivational expert, says, “A goal is a dream with a deadline.” By setting a time frame you will put things in motion. Time limits give dimension to abstract thoughts.

It’s so bad, I saw four CEOs playing miniature golf.

Commit. Tell someone. Force yourself to become accountable, and push yourself. Make a chart to visually track your progress.

The economy is so bad McDonald’s is introducing the 1/4-ouncer.

Persist. As you come upon obstacles and you’re hit by life’s curveballs, your unbending persistence will protect you from retreating to your old powerless ways.

If you have failed in the past or feel you are too old to try again, you’re dead wrong. You are more experienced, wiser and that much better suited to make it this time.

The fed chief, car czar and a rabbi walk into a bar … 

 QUESTION: What steps are you making to take back control of your financial life? Join in the conversation here.