Do you agree the #1 issue in America is unemployment?  35% of the nation agrees that unemployment is the number one issue in our country.  Second is the economy and third for democrats is healthcare third for republicans is the deficit .

Unemployment and underemployment rates affect our nation in many ways.  Though unemployment seems to be reciprocal with the economic condition, unemployment is a lagging factor that measures the effect of a downturned economy.   So the news is that unemployment will get worse even when the economy gets better.

OK, so with our economy in recession, unemployment high, fears rising, how do you plan for your future if by chance the main income provider of your home became unemployed or your business  started to go into the red? 

For me #1 is pray, read God’s word and listen.   Many may laugh at that but faith is a proven factor to ease tention and get direction when things are out of your control, or even in your control for that matter.  But then what?  If you are facing unemployment possibilities or currently there here are three things to try:

If you are married

1.    Be proactive and create a financial contingency plan together in addition to a method for income, independent of your current positions. 

2.    Keep lines of communication open.  People go into fear mode and become on edge.  Anger is triggered and lines of communication are cut off.  So much unnecessary headache can be eliminated if you keep cool and communicate. 

3.    Discover the most minimal income you can live on and try it for a few months.  Discovering how it works without over spending on non-necessities, will give insight on correct planning.  This will also allow you to save if your savings and investments are tied up or non-existent. 

If you are single

1.    Design a financial contingency plan for yourself.

2.    If you are living alone, it may be a good idea to start thinking of just in case potential roommates, boarders, or lower cost of living.

3.    Figuring out what you actually need to live on and cutting back will help you save and clue you into to what you might need in order to adjust your life in case of unemployment or underemployment. 

There are many other preparations to make. But these will get you started.  Prayerfully you will not have to put these into practice.  Those who are currently facing these issues will concur… it can’t hurt!

Please pass this on to someone who may be facing this issue.  Don’t assume they know all this.  It just may help.