Adversity is the mother of invention
Science finds that our general disposition and how we see the world is influenced mainly by our personality type and genetic makeup.
Legendary investor Warren Buffett is well known for his cheerfulness and warmth. The late Apple founder Steve Jobs was notorious for his aggressive and abrasive outbursts.
I'm well known for delivering my financial keynotes and webinars with enthusiasm and high energy. It's not an act. It's just who I am and how I like to communicate.
I know many people are worried, scared, overwhelmed and fearful about their current or future financial situation. The media is full of stories of doom and disaster, much more than stories of hope, opportunity and success. Even the most cheerful optimist is doing well to avoid feeling down and discouraged about life right now.
There are several things that you can do right now to feel more in control, more optimistic and more capable, regardless of your financial circumstances:
Spend more time with nature
Many studies show that people who spend more outside amongst trees and plants are generally happier and healthier. Even if you live in a big city, there will be a park nearby that you can visit. Get into the habit of experiencing nature (which means not being glued to your phone).
Moderate daily exercise
Moderate daily exercise has been found to improve mood and physical health. Whatever your fitness level, find something you can do every day for 15-20 minutes that raises your heartbeat. Perhaps combine this with spending time with nature.
Cultivate personal relationships
Ageing research shows that those who live healthier for longer tend to have strong social connections. In other words, they have lasting and strong personal relationships with relatives, friends or colleagues. That's why staying working and interacting with others has been found to support overall well-being.
So, be intentional about developing and maintaining a loving family, mutually supportive work-based contacts, and trusting personal friendships.
But what if you don't have family nearby, are unemployed or unable to work due to health or caring responsibilities? Community support groups and self-help cooperatives can help you avoid feeling down and alone.
Stop watching and reading mainstream news media
The news always focuses on what is wrong, what isn't working and how the world is unfair. If you let this constant drip-drip of negativity into your mind, there is a high chance you'll become despondent and feel overwhelmed.
Instead, spend time reading inspirational books - self-improvement, philosophy and biographies - that help you expand your knowledge and understanding.
Claim all the financial help available
It is estimated that each year just over £15B of state financial help goes unclaimed. That's nearly £540 for every household in the U.K.!
Use this website to check what you might be entitled to. And if you are really struggling financially, visit this website to see what personal support you can access on the phone, online or in person.
Play offensive with money
History shows that some of the most successful businesses and enduring family fortunes were created during tough economic times. I know from my own money disaster in the early 1990s that life is darkest before dawn. But you can emerge healthier, happier and wealthier.
Do you need to retrain or upskill?
Do you need to get a promotion or change jobs?
Is now the right time to start your own business solving problems that others will gladly pay you well for?
Would moving where you live make sense?
Would your family lend or gift you money to help you improve your life?
Humans have always experienced struggles, challenges, and uncertainty. Whatever your situation, use the current financial turmoil as an excuse to become better at every aspect of your life. It's the only one you have.
And maintaining a positive outlook can really make a big difference as this song from Monty Python’s classic film Life of Brian explains.
Warm regards
Jason