HAPPY HOLIDAYS

   You know what, we are all here. If you have the ability to read this, it means you can afford a computer. If you can afford a computer, you can probably afford to put food on the table. It probably means that you have a roof over your head. It probably means that you are loved by the people around you and that you have people to love.

   I think it’s easy to fall into a trap of feeling sorry for ourselves and focus on what we don’t have. Perhaps in this last year you have had to give up Starbucks. Maybe you gave up the club membership or the extra car. Perhaps that new outfit. Or maybe you are not buying any or fewer Christmas presents.

   Is this all bad? I don’t think so. From a personal point, this economy is allowing me to teach my boys Ryan & Evan about being smart with their money. In yesterday’s environment we have spoiled our kids. Today we are talking of conservation of everyday items. We talk of cutting back those dinners out to save money. A big conversation is about need versus want. This is a valid question in all of our everyday spending habits. Kyosaki in rich Dad Poor Dad, states if you can’t buy it cash, don’t buy it.

   From a business side, we have trimmed lots of waste. We use recycled paper and scraps for non essential printing. We consolidated our offices. Yes, we are a little crowed, but it’s $500 a month saving. Kristen Cole, REMAX in Alaska spoke last week about budgets and costs cutting. We have been spoiled by order taking. It’s time to work. It’s time to reconnect.  Look at need versus want in the business arena too.

   Bottom line, we are blessed to be alive. A good friend and realtor, Barbara Brady, would give anything to have her health and well being. If you are reading this, you probably have that and much more. Our mothers always said to “Count Your Blessings and Be Grateful”.

   This is a perfect time of year to do just that. Do it daily. You will smile. It doesn’t take much looking around to see someone who is struggling. Be thankful for what you do have and focus on that.

   Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!! I will see you after the holidays!!

Thanks,

Brian