Submitted by edwardfoxworth on Mon, 04/26/2010 - 16:37

 By Edward Foxworth III


The dial on your household’s financial indicator has probably long passed the “safe” mode, zoomed pass the “hunker down” area and nearing or in the “Break the Glass” zone. Normally, this action is reserved for extreme, last ditch measures. For many, the savings account has been depleted, borrowing from family and friends in advance of some anticipated funds has gotten old, and your unemployment is or has run out. Note to Self: Things will have to change and change quickly! 

While policymakers review plans to fix the economy, it probably has crossed your mind to “Break the Glass” on your 401K or household items of value that can be sold on eBay or to the pawn shop. As spring cleaning is upon us, corporations and small businesses are getting ready for the summer months, you may have considered “Breaking the Glass” on the idea of moving out of your home/condo and/or relocating to another city and state, as a cost cutting measure. In light of the fact that banks have not presented a more lenient plan for lending much needed funds to aspiring and current entrepreneurs, the thought of filing for bankruptcy might have entered your mind and is looking very attractive. 

It is extremely critical to remember, especially when in “survival mode,” that you must control the emotional component of your situation(s). Outside of prayer, resiliency and perseverance, some form of exercising is a simple, yet constant aid in reducing stress, everyone can do it, it is beneficial in many ways and it is free! Also, experts suggest that removing yourself from stressful, tension-filled situations for a period of time is beneficial to all involved and it allows you the space to gather your thoughts and to devise a productive plan of action.

The frustration, confusion and an overall feeling of being stuck can be debilitating, especially when you are professional, skilled, connected and not able to living up to your potential or your expectations. Yes we live in a free enterprise, yet relationships, professionally speaking, are not what they used to be. Economic crisis will change the way people act and react; often every man for him/herself. 

The Key, before “Breaking the Glass,” is to take inventory of your skill set, compare that to the projected trends of where you live, coupled with your professional passion and your desired quality of life. Depending on the pro’s and con’s of your answers, decide.