Strategies
to Beat the Economic Slump
How the Right Attitude and Some Simple Steps Can Make All the
Difference
(ARA) – With high gas prices
and unemployment rates soaring, we can all agree that the
economy is struggling. Even in tough economic times, there
are some simple things each of us can do to make a
difference in our lives. Especially if questions like these
are being asked:
When will prices change? Why doesn’t my job pay me more? Who
is responsible for the current economic slump?
“There are many things that happen in life that are out of
our control. Instead of falling into the trap of victim
thinking or playing the blame game, why not focus on the
action we can take to make a difference?” says John G.
Miller, an expert on personal accountability and author of
the books “QBQ! The Question Behind the Question” and
“Flipping the Switch.”
Our attitude and the questions we ask ourselves during
difficult times can make all the difference and will help us
take actions that can improve any situation. Miller says the
best way for each of us to practice personal accountability
and change our outlook is to ask QBQs, or the ‘question
behind the question.’ QBQs are questions that begin with
“What” or “How,” contain the word “I,” and focus on action.
By asking questions that focus on ourselves and the action
we personally can take, we are able to eliminate whining and
complaining and move toward positive change.
“None of us can change the high gas prices, cost of food, or
potential layoffs at work. But asking the right questions
can make a positive impact,” adds Miller.
For example, many people are stressed financially because of
the rising cost of living. Here’s how the right question can
lead to a positive action:
Incorrect Question: Why do gas and groceries cost so much?
Correct Question: What can I do to better manage my
finances?
“After asking this question of myself, I would be able to
examine my personal situation and make changes to my
budget,” says Miller. “I would then ask questions like: Do I
have a cell phone plan that’s too big for my income? Do I
have a premium cable package with 150 channels when I could
do with a basic plan or a good book? Do I always have to
have a morning latte or drink bottled water? What can I do
differently to save money?”
Making positive changes by practicing personal
accountability, in light of the current economy, can seem
overwhelming. Instead of trying to change everything at
once, start with these small steps. These options help us
take action in our own lives, instead of focusing on
uncontrollable circumstances. Try combining errands to save
on gas, buying generic brands, buying in bulk, and
conserving energy in the home by turning off lights and only
running the dishwasher when full. Little changes can add up
-- over time -- to big savings.
And, of course, sometimes there can be big savings in single
decisions.
Incorrect Question: When will we be able to move to a bigger
house?
Correct Question: How can I be more content with the home I
have?
Incorrect Question: Why can’t I buy a brand new car?
Correct Question: What can I do to better care for the car I
have and extend its life?
Incorrect Question: When will we be able to afford a trip to
Disney World?
Correct Question: How can I create fun experiences for my
family at home?
When we ask the right question we can then work to find a
solution. For example with our entertainment activities, we
can search our hometown for free museums and other
activities that might get overlooked. Or, bring the
entertainment home. For example, if your family usually goes
to the movies, opt instead to rent and create the theater
experience with popcorn and treats. Like to eat out? Instead
choose a special recipe that the whole family enjoys and
work together to cook it.
“Although times are tight for everyone, I can always make
the best of a difficult situation,” says Miller. “By asking
the right questions and practicing personal accountability
rather than blaming others or complaining, we can make a
dramatic impact and be a lot happier.”
To learn more about QBQ! and to order both of John Miller’s
books, visit www.QBQ.com.
Courtesy of ARAcontent