Work + Money

Tuesday, October 7, 2008

Consumer confidence: What are you worried about?

Looks like more and more of us are seeing the glass as half-empty. Consumer confidence is at the lowest it's been in 26 years.

For many, economic woes are an immediate reality, with food, fuel, jobs and housing making every day a struggle. For others, jobs are currently intact, mortgages are being paid, and while the food and fuel bills are unpleasant, they haven't yet broken the bank. Of those who aren't in financial crisis, many are still worried about what's coming around the bend, so they're cutting back and preparing for the worst.

My husband and I still have our jobs and we're fortunate that our mortgage is locked in for 30 years, but I'm definitely concerned. My job is very economy-sensitive; every recession, hordes of advertising copywriters like myself get the boot and hit the streets. As for my husband's business, it's only about five years old and we have no experience as to what a struggling economy will bring to his company's bottom line. So even though there have been no actual changes to our finances other than increased food and fuel costs, I am making significant spending changes across the board -- just in case.

How do you feel about the economy? Have you experienced recent financial setbacks or is everything status quo? And if your situation is currently stable, are you still cutting back out of recession worries or is it spending as usual?
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From the Community…

Comments 1-2 of 2
  • martysue200125's Avatar
    Posted by martysue200125 Tue Apr 15, 2008 8:06am PDT

    As a senior citizen (retiree) I can unequivocally endorse saving. Actually,having money during down times is not only vital for current living, but also presents investment opportunities, which ultimately helps restart the economy. Also, we Keynsians say that in a down economy public spending provides a stimulus. (Remember Roosevelt's Works Project Administration---WPA)?

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  • Patricia R's Avatar
    Posted by Patricia R Thu Apr 17, 2008 12:12pm PDT

    As a parent of three children, I am not so much worried about myself, but I don't like to think about how cutting back would affect the kids. It would be easier for me not to go out to dinner one night than to tell little "J," he will never see the inside of a Chuckie Cheese again. I always worry about college for the children because that is such a large chunk. However, since I put myself through school, it's not the end of the world if they have to work for it somehow themselves. I, like the previous post, endorse saving but not rigid or militant parsimony.

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