How to bail out yourself
Feel like you need your own bailout?
Whether it is a rescue for your finances or reform to move your life in a new and better direction, you can perform a bailout for yourself. And it won’t cost you $700 billion or even $1. It’ll take hard work, self-discipline, and patience. But it’s the correct way to do it.
(Just a note; if you’re looking for financial advice, this is not really the article for you.)
How to know when you’re in need of a bailout:
- When you’ve become overwhelmed.
- When you’ve ever felt like saying: “I’m as mad as hell, and I’m not going to take this anymore!” (From Network)
- You don’t enjoy anything you do.
- Your life is not going the way you expected.
- Every step you take, forces you to take two back.
Firstly, what you need to do is compile a list containing the aspects of your life you dislike. Concentrate only on the most crucial ones though, and don’t just focus on one area of your life; many problems are only the outer shell of something even bigger. You might be having troubles with your finances but the real issue may lie within your attitude.
Next, think back to what got you into the troubles you’re facing and what moved your life in the wrong direction. Were you complacent? Greedy? foolish? You aren’t doing this to get frustrated and want to turn back the clock to start over; it’s for you to learn and move on. But, you don’t want to completely shut out the mistakes of your past.
Now, do a little planning. Think of where you really want to be, what type of goals you want to achieve, and how you’re going to get there. You certainly want to avoid rushing into your bailout like the government did. Sure they had Wall Street, America, and the rest of the world on the edge of their seats, but rushing to implement the bailout bill is going to cause many loopholes and ways for the greedy to take advantage.
Moving on; it’s time to lose some misconceptions:
- Money will fix all problems
This couldn’t be more untrue and I wish the government would realize this. Wall Street’s problems don’t need cash to be fixed. There needs to be reform, new laws that are strictly enforced, and loopholes need to be patched up. Money is just a quick fix. Even if it’s your finances, the real problems are in your judgment and in the way you handle your money.
- It’s pathetic to ask for help
There’s nothing wrong with asking for help. Ask for advice and ask questions, because the more you do, the more you learn. Just remember to meet those who help you, at least half way.
- Change will be quick
Sorry, but changing the direction of your life doesn’t happen that quickly. And even if change happens fast, sustaining is what takes the most patience.
- Your life is in turmoil
Relax. Just because you need a bailout, it doesn’t mean your life is falling apart. Sure, you’re going through a tough time, but who hasn’t? You’re not alone.
The dos and don’ts
- Don’t play the blame game
Almost any problem in your life has to be a little bit your fault. Don’t bother pointing fingers like the Republicans and Democrats. Just bite the bullet and get back to work.
- Do take responsibility
It’s a no-brainer; but the quicker you do take responsibility, the quicker you can move on in the right direction. Don’t be like many of the firms on Wall Street, keeping things on the “DL” and getting away with it (for now, karma will catch up with them). Read the story about this
- Do live within your means
Sure, it’s a cliché saying, but living within your means is the best way to get ahead and sometimes the fastest.
- Don’t wait for help
You can ask for help but don’t expect it to come. You don’t have time to wait like that.
- Don’t tear other people down
You don’t deserve any of the success you obtain if you do this.
- Do the opposite
Bring people up the ladder of success with you.
A quick bailout checklist
As I said in the beginning of this article, money is not important when you’re bailing yourself out. Here is a checklist for what you do need:
[ x ] Time – It’s already checked for you because everyone has time to move their life into a new direction. I don’t care if you have 2 jobs or 6 kids.
[ ] No animosity – There will be some people who won’t be affected by the economic mess, and some that will even gain during this time. But you don’t want to get too jealous. Some will win, some will lose; but life is fair.
[ ] A critic – You should listen to what they have to say, but you don’t have to follow their advice. Critics are necessary because they can keep you in check.
[ ] A plan b
[ ] Obsession – Changing your life doesn’t take focus, it takes complete and utter obsession.
[ ] Action – Now it’s time to just do it! Follow your dreams, passions, and your heart. This economy has created amazing opportunities. Don’t wait.
Original photo from Marion Doss
Related posts:
- 9 ways you can take advantage of this terrible economy
- How to graduate the School of Hard Knocks with a 4.0
8 Responses to “How to bail out yourself”
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It’s true that it takes time to make lasting changes, but it doesn’t cost money and it’s the best investment most of us will every make. Gave this one a Digg because it’s so inspirational.
Thanks for the compliment and for the digg. Appreciate it!
-Andrew
This is a very wise perspective, so good to see some common sense about this issue!
Thanks Kirsten!
-Andrew
I really enjoyed this post! Happiness and balance can be found, but you are responsible for taking the (sometimes uncomfortable) steps to get yourself there. Personal responsibility and accountability sounds like such an easy, common sense thing but in reality takes discipline, realism and practice.
I would also encourage anyone who feels overwhelmed to seriously consider reaching out for professional help. While a strong support system is important, they are not always equipped to help in the ways you need them to. There is no shame in talking to a neutral, trained 3rd party to help you gain perspective – self care will see you through whatever bailout strategy you come up with.
Again, nice post. I think this is such a powerful message with current events.
Thanks Jess! Glad you liked the article so much. Happiness, balance, and a new direction can be found but it does take time and discipline.
-Andrew
What I love most is that these articles always seem to come at the time when I need them most. Thanks for the inspiration as I will be putting into action your words of advice. Change is hard but I have a strong belief that it is always good. Personal growth is the best gift we can give ourselves to ensure a happy future.
Hey Tracy,
Glad I could help you out and provide you with some inspiration.
-Andrew