by Noel Rozny
myFootpath Web Editor & Content Manager
MetLife just released its 2010 “Study of the American Dream,” and the picture isn’t so pretty.
As a whole, we Americans feel pretty down about our personal finances, the economy, and our job security. And while most of us are struggling to make ends meet, we’re still reaching for the stars, wanting to buy bigger, better and more.
Readers, it’s time to stop the insanity.
Whether you’ve been laid off, are looking for a new job, or you’re just feeling anxious about keeping your current position, there are two problems at hand. The first is that most of us are taking home smaller paychecks than we used to. The second is that we haven’t reduced the expectations we’re placing on ourselves.
That’s why the myFootpath team has put together these five tips that will simultaneously help you reduce stress and survive these tough economic times.
Tips for Reducing Stress
Tip #1: Stop Keeping Up With the Joneses
According to the MetLife study, “Three in ten (29%) [Americans] feel more pressure to buy more and better material possessions,” even while they’re struggling financially.
It’s time to put down that Prada purse and step away from the Mercedes. Be realistic about what you can and can’t afford. Stop beating yourself up if you can’t buy the latest iPhone. Believe it or not, you’ll feel better about yourself and less stressed in the long run if you keep those extra dollars in your pocket.
Tip #2: Get Your Coupon (or Groupon) On
Have you ever noticed how everyday items and necessities seem eat away at your paycheck? Reduce your grocery bill by clipping coupons. Check out your Sunday paper each week for deals on everything from toothpaste to sunblock to bananas. Yes, we know, 50 cents doesn’t seem like a lot. But 50 cents on a few items each week can add up to major savings over time.
And just because you’re saving money doesn’t mean you can’t go out and have some fun once in awhile. Groupon is like a grocery coupon for fun stuff, from five-course tasting menus at swanky steakhouses to serious deals on hot yoga packages.
Every day, Groupon features one deal on their website, like a $40 unlimited-sushi-buffet coupon for $20. The key is to email your friends and get them to buy into the coupon (hence the name). You get sushi, they get sushi, you all save money. Everybody wins. (Except the tuna.)
Tip #3: Get a Little Exercise
When you’re down in the dumps, going for a workout is probably the last thing you want to do. (Curling up on the couch in your favorite sweatpants with a pint of Ben & Jerry’s probably sounds much more appealing.)
But like it or not, exercise is one of the best things you can do to get out of a stress- or finance-induced funk. Running, biking, or even walking around the block releases endorphins, those wonderful little chemicals that put a spring in your step and a smile on your face.
And best of all, there’s no extra calories, hangover, or buyer’s remorse later on.
Tip #4: Enjoy What’s Free
When things are tough, we all need a pick-me-up. Unfortunately, most of the pick-me-ups we’re accustomed to cost money, from spa treatments to Starbucks vanilla lattes.
But while you may not be able to afford an exotic vacation to the south of France this year, don’t forget the amazing (and free) resources all around you. How bout going for a bike ride in the forest preserve in the next county over? What about packing a picnic dinner and taking it to your local beach?
Check out your city and state websites to find out what free or discounted options there are at your local museums, concert venues, and state parks.
Tip #5. Balance Your Budget
We know. It’s the last thing anyone wants to do, especially when you’re financial situation isn’t the greatest. But trust us, sitting down and figure out exactly where you stand financially is a lot better than hoping and praying that it’s all going to work out ok.
Plus, it will allow you to make the adjustments you need to survive on your current income. (And that might be the best stress relief of all.)
