Last night, after hearing that the stock market had fallen below 7,000 for the first time in over a decade, I tossed and turned about the state of the economy.  I know, not something I can do much about, especially at 3:00 in the morning.  I’ve always prided myself on being financially responsible.  I’ve worked, paid my taxes, put away money for the future so my kids could go to the college of their choice and my husband and I would have a comfortable retirement.  And now, thanks to the irresponsibility of those who are far wealthier than I, all of that is for naught.  My financial habits, which were in line with my values, have been derailed by those whose values are quite different than mine.  And, I’m left in a twist about it.  One of the greatest factors in stress level is the amount of control one feels over his/her circumstances.  The less control, the higher the stress level.  So, while I’m feeling pretty stressed about the state of the overall economy, I’m  trying to find things in my life over which I do have control.  One of those, of course, is my thoughts.  So, here’s my de-stressing thought for today:  Maybe this is the lesson we, as a materialistic society full of greedy people, needs to learn, the 2 x 4 ‘upside the head’ that we need in order to reassess our priorities, return to more moderate lifestyles and restore family values.  Yeah, that feels right (to me).  And, I can continue to teach my children good money values and responsible habits.  Yeah, that’s in my control.  And, I can (even though I would prefer not to have to) find ways to save money without feeling deprived (OK, maybe a little deprived). 

I’d love to hear what how you are responding to the economic crisis and how you are managing your stress (if you are having any) about it.  Please comment!