Greetings to all in the blog-o-sphere. I apologize for my recent hiatus. However, as we all know, things can change suddenly and drastically and life sometimes needs to be put on hold.
About a month ago I was laid off. In this economy, it appears, no one is safe. Well, after the initial shock and the "Oh my gosh, what do I do now?" moments, I started to gather my thoughts and think with a clear mind. I had been wanting to move anyway, so I decided to uproot myself once again and move halfway across the country. Now that I am closer to my friends and loved ones, life has taken a change for the better. Granted, the lack of income is currently a struggle, I do have a strong support system which is there for me while I get back on my feet.
What happened to me is not uncommon in this economy. People are being laid off, businesses are closing, and the media likes to remind us constantly of the doom and gloom that appears to be surrounding us. But here's an idea, why not make the best of it? I did. I know that moving 600 miles away isn't really the answer to anyone's problems (except mine) but what if instead of worrying about what is happening on Wall Street, we think of how this can be beneficial.
Juli, you're crazy. I know, I'm sure that's what you're all thinking. And yes, maybe I'm an optimist, but let's give an example. Let's say you own a coffee shop. People may be buying less coffee which hurts you. But what can you do to ensure people still visit your shop after times get better? Here's a simple idea: Start a book club. If you create your space as a place people can meet and don't feel obliged to buy something, you're at least getting people in your store. Plus, with so many people out of work, they are available during the day. Some people may be out of work a week or four months. Borrowing a book from the library and spending some time with people in a coffee shop can really brighten your day after the countless applications and resume revising. People will associate your coffee shop with a good time even when they were down on their luck. After they have a job, they may continue to come, and this time, to buy a cup of coffee.
I know it's hard, but sometimes we have to look for what good can come from the bad. If we don't, doesn't that just fuel more unpleasantness?
Happy Marketing!
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