🎶 Whoa! I feel good, I knew that I would, now
I feel good, I knew that I would, now 🎶
Give him credit: James Brown had the right attitude toward life.
Even though he knew deep in his bones that there’s a world full of troubles he could’ve been focused on, his hits always celebrated his lust for life.
Think things are bad and about to get worse? Whether it’s a recession, feeling overwhelmed, or something even worse, I’ve got just one thing to say:
Get Up Offa That Thing!
👉 Afraid of a recession? Please note that most economists have been debating whether we’re heading into a recession, or — wait for it — we’re already in one and are now heading out. Why the debate? Because they don’t know, and neither do I, and neither do you. Even if the recession exists, or will exist, or has existed, here are three things to remember:
- If there’s a recession, most economists predict a short, shallow one. It’ll be over before you know it.
- You can’t control whether or not there’s a recession. What you can control is yourself. If you’re truly worried about it, prepare for it. But:
- Be careful what you cut (if anything). Downturns, if or when they exist, can be tragic — or they can be times of opportunity. Ask yourself, what can I achieve during a downturn that I couldn’t have otherwise?
👉 Feeling overwhelmed? If you’re overwhelmed, you’re doing too much to too little effect. Look around for what you can stop doing or can delegate to others. Focus on the things within your control, and where you can actually make an impact, and let everything else go. (And if you still feel overwhelmed, consider speaking with a friend or therapist, or taking on a daily practice. Meditation? A gym routine? A system of philosophy? There are lots of helpful options.)
👉Something worse? Climate change, the war in Ukraine, the rainforest, political instability… many of these distressing global issues actually showed signs of improvement in 2022! If something truly animates you, find a way to work on its improvement; even making changes in your own kitchen and laundry room can help the environment. But Please, Please, Please, stay positive. Cynicism never helped anyone.
If 2023 is going to be terrific for some people — and it is — then why not you? Make the most of every day and the gifts you’re giving, and everyone will see that Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag.
I’d love to know what you’re doing to make Living in America in 2023 your best year yet.
Short on ideas? I Got You. Get in touch. We’ll have A Funky Good Time.
OK, that’s enough.
Lee