Is
it just me or is anyone else getting a little recession
news weary? The truth is, no one really knows when it
will finally be over, though many economists predict a
rough 2009 and a full recovery in 2010. But after the
crash of 1929, most of the talking heads also predicted
a full recovery in 1931. I think I’ll let someone else
figure out all the details that make
things more depressing while I look for the
silver lining.
1. In a down economy, I can negotiate for
almost anything.
Many businesses people are hurting for business and when
the economy slides,
negotiation rules the day. You can literally
negotiate for almost anything.
Here’s a list of businesses you may not think of as
negotiators, but they’re probably willing to haggle for
your business:
- Windshield Repair
- House Painters
- Tire Dealers
- Karate Instructors
- Security System Dealers
- Optometrists
- Mattress Dealers
- Real Estate Agents
- Carpet Cleaners
- Tour Group Operators
- Veterinarians
- Tool Rental Companies
2. Being cheap is actually in vogue.
When my wife and I order water at restaurants and then
split the entree, the waitress understands why rather
than rolling her eyes.
3. I’ve been able to clear some clutter.
I’ve been able to make extra money
by selling a lot of “stuff” I wasn’t using in yard sales
and I’ve given away a lot of books on this
blog! (More book giveaways to
come!)
4. I’ve learned to be more appreciative of my
job.
Hearing about the hundreds of thousands of people who
are losing their jobs every month has an uncanny way of
making my own job seem quite a lot sweeter.
5. Purchases are not a given anymore.
The recession has forced me to thing and re-think about
each and every purchase. It’s funny how my thinking has
become much more crystallized since the
economy tightened.
Thanks to hzwings, Portland, OR
