It's no secret that the economy is getting worse as the days go on.
Businesses are going out of business, banks are going bankrupt, and people are losing their homes and their jobs.
And as if that's not bad enough it's become increasingly difficult for anyone to get credit in our economy right now.
So how can anyone be happy in times like these? Well there is no simple answer, but there are five simple things you can do to make these difficult times more pleasant.
First, don't think of what you could have done, but rather about what you will do in the future.
The past is behind us; don't blame yourself for those stocks that you should have sold months ago or that car that you should not have bought last year.
Playing the blame game will get you nowhere.
In times of economic duress, it's true that many people feel regretful about many things, but this is a time to make actionable decisions for the future.
Second, don't sit around and do nothing.
Get out, and continue to partake in the same things that you do before.
You may need to cut down on some things such as, splurging on expensive items, but you should not feel that you have to stay in all the time.
One of the best things you can do is go to the gym and exercise.
Regular aerobic activity has been known to reduce stress, and should be utilized especially at times when you're feeling depressed.
Third, help out your friends, especially those whom are struggling.
There is nothing better than having a good friend available in the worst of times.
That good feeling you get from being able to do something for someone else is greatly appreciated, in addition to that bond of friendship that becomes that much stronger.
I'm not necessarily suggesting that you get all the money in your bank account and just give it to all of your friends, but rather try to help them out in any way that you believe is reasonable and doable.
They say that giving is better than receiving, and the more you give the more you'll get in return, be it a stronger friendship or just that excellent feeling that you have inside knowing that you were able to help someone out in need.
In addition, the more people you surround yourself with the less time you will have to think about the economy and how bad things may be.
Fourth, think about enrolling in a few classes.
There is no time like the present to go back to school, and learn a new skill or trait.
The more knowledge you possess the more marketable you make yourself, especially in an economy that is depressing such as ours.
Take this time and utilize it as an opportunity to learn something new.
Get with a group of friends, and all take a class together.
Being around other people in a classroom promotes new ideas and conversation among its participants, and this social interaction will promote a better learning environment and can make it's students feel more fulfilled and happy in the long run.
Fifth, get an animal.
There have been many studies showing that animals are very therapeutic, and that they promote good mental well-being and that they relieve us of our everyday problems.
You know the saying "a dog is mans best friend" well there is definitely some truth to that.
There are millions of pet owners around the world that would testify that they are more complete because of their animals.
It's that empty void that gets filled from another living thing, and that interaction that can only come from a pet and its owner.
I'm not saying that an animal is a replacement for another human being but, they definitely possess a trait that can sooth almost anyone.
In addition to that there are millions of pets around the world that need a good home and someone to love them.
Historically, economic downfalls and depressions have come and gone.
There is no reason to feel especially depressed or regretful about what the past might have been if you would have done things differently.
There lies a bright future ahead and this is just a dip in the valley.
Use these five suggestions to help keep you positively motivated and happy in your life.
Explore new challenges, and learn to become more resourceful.
Embrace any change that you might have to endure as an opportunity to learn and become more knowledgeable.