Overcoming Financial Anxiety in a Shaky Economy

Though economists are sidestepping the word "recession," it´s clear that the U.S. economy is on shaky ground. Increases in unemployment and decreases in manufacturing, consumer spending, the strength of the dollar and persistent housing slumps have Americans worried.

According to a Fortune Magazine poll of 1,000 Americans:

• 65 percent believe U.S. economic conditions are getting worse



• 57 percent believe the United States is heading into a recession in the next 12 months



• 48 percent have cut back their spending in the past 12 months



• 18 percent are somewhat worried about losing their jobs in the next year, and 8 percent are very worried



• 15 percent haven´t kept up with their credit card payments, and 9 percent haven´t kept up with their mortgage, rent or other loan payments

A shaky economy can mean your job is in jeopardy, your savings at risk or your bills are piling up uncontrollably. However, you can get through, and even thrive, during a recession by using the following tips.

Stay calm. Experts recommend not making any hasty decisions about your investments, and keeping your focus on the long-term instead.

Focus on your goals. Whatever you do, avoid focusing on the shaky economy, as this will only draw more hardship into your life. "Whether the economy is doing well or poorly you can survive and even thrive if you let go and focus on your goals and aspirations --and follow through with action," says Hale Dwoskin, CEO and Director of Training at Sedona Training Associates.

Release your fears. Financial anxiety, or being debt-minded, actively pushes away the financial security you so crave. Instead, use The Sedona Method to release your worry, fears, and negative thoughts about money. "Don´t deny the realities of the marketplace, but release and you will find yourself rising above them," Dwoskin says.

Save your money. As much as you can, establish a financial safety net (experts recommend stashing away from three to six months worth of living expenses).

Reduce your spending. While overall spending increases the economy, spending on an individual basis is not always the best decision amid recession worries. If your income is tight, don´t  splurge on big purchases, vacations or other non-essentials.

"And remember," Dwoskin says, "you can learn to thrive even when things are difficult. When the economy is not doing well money merely moves into different hands. Open your consciousness and allow yourself to succeed by allowing what is to be and acting appropriately."

For more information on the life-changing, easy to use Sedona Method, visit our web site at www.sedona.com