Economy in the New Year

Most of you will be happy to know that Money magazine, for one, predicts, “After five frustrating years, the economy is ready to bust out.” In fact, Money says the economic rebirth is already underway: “Stocks already had a banner run in anticipation of the rebound, housing is scorching, and jobs won’t be far behind.”

Realistically, the magazine says “no one is predicting “herculean growth” in 2014. But after so many years of bad news about the economy, this optimistic outlook should be enough to put a smile on the face of economic curmudgeons.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 2.4 million jobs will be created in 2014, the most since 2005, which means more money in the pockets of consumers and the cash registers of small businesses.

But you can’t sit back and wait for the cash to start flowing. You have to be proactive and embrace the positivity. It’s time for change, not just economic, but attitudinal. I am tired of hearing why we can’t, why things are stuck in low gear, why small businesses are doomed. Thinking you’re doomed is likely to be a self-fulfilling prophecy.

Yes, the last few years threw many of us. But it’s time to get back on the horse. In fact, 2014 is the Chinese year of the horse (it starts 1/31), which is the sign of “speedy success.” Sounds like another good sign to me.

Have a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year!