8 Steps to Creating Your Own Economic Bailout Plan

I recently heard a friend talk about the insanity around us. I looked at her a bit puzzled because I was not sure exactly what she was referring to. You see, I know that people are experiencing financial issues, as is the US financial system, but I do not judge it as insane. I see it as a "correction." The huge inflation of home values over the years required correction, as did some aspect of Wall Street and the Market.

Now, you may be caught in this correction and feeling as if you are struggling. I have been coaching a number of people on this topic and believe you might like the information as well. Here are 8 steps to creating your own economic bailout:

1. Breathe. First and foremost, breathe and do not panic. Not everyone has lost their job or their home. If the unemployment rates are at 6% that means 94% are employed. If you are unemployed, focus on the 94% and believe that there is a job out there for you. And breathe.

2. Be Grateful. No matter what you are experiencing in your life, right this moment, find three things for which you are grateful. This little exercise, repeated daily, will help to attract more reasons for you to be grateful in your life.

3. Focus on what you want. When all about you seems overwhelming and confusing, focus on what you want. One question I frequently ask myself is, "If I had it just the way I wanted it, what would it look like?" Write a list of what you want in your life, post notes of your goals on your bathroom mirror, do whatever it takes to keep your mind focused on what you want to experience in your life. And, turn off the news. Your friends and family will let you know the important stuff. Do not fixate on the negative events around you. Focus on the good in your life and visualize your goals coming to fruition.

4. Take action. Do not bury your head in the sand. If you are experiencing financial difficulty, be willing to be honest with yourself...and, potentially with another person. Look at your finances, make necessary calls to your creditors, and create a plan to get some breathing room in your situation.

5. Get a job if you have to. You may be wondering where I came up with these steps. I have lived through this and write about it in "Journey to Abundance." If I have one regret about my journey, it is that I did not just get a job to create some income, some breathing room, while I was trying to start up my business. I was too prideful to get a job. I was afraid that someone who knew I had left my prestigious career might see me working out in public and judge me as a failure. I only wish someone had told me this: You are not your job. It does not define you. Who you are is your character, your integrity, and how you carry yourself no matter what you do. If your dream is to be an entrepreneur, keep believing while you get some breathing room. Having a little extra money coming in keeps your vibration high and allows you to attract more of what you want in your life.

6. Ask for help. Pray if you believe in a higher power. And, if you don't, you will still need help from outside yourself to change your circumstances. Regardless, ask a mentor or a trusted advisor for advice. Be careful of who you ask, though. Make sure you choose someone who is knowledgeable about the challenges you are experiencing, and knows how to overcome them.

7. Use your words wisely. Just as you want to focus only on what you want, make sure your thoughts and words are also in alignment. Do not repeat frightening stories from the news, do not pray for one thing and then say, "nothing good ever happens to me," or talk to others about what is not manifesting in your life.

8. Continue to dream. One book I highly, highly recommend is "The Passion Test" by Janet Attwood and Chris Attwood. I recommend this book as a part of my coaching practice and even use it with my corporate teams. When you know what you are most passionate about, your life will take on more focus, fun and purpose than you can imagine.

Now is the time to look at your glass as half full. There is so much good in this world and so much to be thankful for...even in the difficult times. Whether you are struggling or you are just feeling a twinge of worry, use these steps to manifest more of what you want in your life today.