Unemployment has sunk to 1983 levels. People are paralyzed with fear.

In 1983, my husband and I both switched jobs, bought a house with a 12.75% mortgage rate, bought a new car, and started a family. My parents retired at that point too. I don’t remember anyone being stressed. 

Were we clueless? I don’t think so. We listened to public radio just as much then as we do now.

Were we exceptional? I don’t think so. We bought a starter home, watched our budget, and lived within our means.

Are things worse now?

I honestly don’t know. It feels like it and that is where the paralysis comes in. Our lives are inundated with bad news.

• Some local businesses tell me that orders are picking up, but ‘Breaking News’ emails tell me of record lay-offs and unprecedented government interventions.
• Web updates describe sacrifice and corruption – the good, the bad, and the ugly – in vivid detail with devastating examples.
• A bazillion TV channels that didn’t exist in 1983 and struggling newpapers compete on the basis of sensationalism.
• We have all seen ample evidence that our children’s and our children’s children’s future have been sold to the devil.
• Few minutes pass without more bad news. Can you even sort of remember when we relied on the morning paper for news?

A little more bad news will officially land us in the worst of times. The images of the Great Depression creep into our subconscious. Breadlines. The Grapes of Wrath. The Unimaginable.

Are there enough uninterrupted moments in the day to step back, regroup, and kindle a sense of optimism? Unless you turn off the Internet and the TV, and forward your phone to voice mail, there probably are not.

The result is paralysis. Contraction. Hunkering down. Our economy worsens. Our spirits sicken. Our health deteriorates.

The Great American Spirit of determination and entrepreneurialism needs a break and a boost. While I don’t recommend shutting out the news entirely, once a day may be a healthier dose.

No matter what comes our way, we are the spirit, the initiative, and the future.

• Stand tall.
• Breathe deeply.
• Stay strong.
• Be alert.
• Act aggressively to bolster your future.
• Control what you can.
• Waste as little energy as possible on the things you can’t control.