2013 could be a challenging year from a financial standpoint for many individuals and families in this coutnry. Taxes are up, paychecks are down, and plenty of people are still out of work. A recent article suggests that Americans are no longer filled with as much "hope" as they once were. Instead, people are finding that they can only "cope" with their financial situation and deal with the cards that they have been dealt. I certainly understand this sentiment, but I also try to maintain a level of hope about what will transpire in the future. For now, I am hopeful about 2013 and what may lie ahead.
How will it work out?
In the 1998 romantic comedy "Shakespeare in Love," the main characters are faced with a number of challenges to overcome throughout the film. At a couple of different points, characters verbalize their concerns and ask how things are going to work out. The answer? To paraphrase, the characters suggest, "I don't know...it's a mystery!" I am optimistic, but some of that dialogue does resonate with me. How will things work out better in 2013 from a financial standpoint? In all honesty, I am not entirely sure. However, all I can do is keep working, get creative with some of my expenses, and look for new opportunities.
Pressure on the leader
Obviously some attitudes are impacted by people's feelings about the current governmental leadership and what might transpire in the next few years. I understand that particular leaders can have an impact on the economy and my particular tax status. There may be higher taxes in my future, which I would not particularly enjoy. However, I hope people will continue to look at the big picture. The current tax structure and state of the economy has been created over the course of several decades. In other words, I don't expect an instant solution to the challenges in this country.
This is America
Yes, 2013 will be very hard for many Americans. I do not necessarily expect it to be a year of plenty, but I will hold onto hope and try to maintain a good attitude. How will it work out? That is somewhat unclear, but this America. The people of this country has worked through financial challenges in the past, and they will do so again. For taxpayers like me, it may involve finding additional sources of income and cutting certain household expenses. In addition to these simple strategies I find it helpful to maintain some positive thinking. In 2013, I may need it.
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