| MetLife just released its 2010 "Study of the | | | | Every day, Groupon features one deal on their |
| American Dream," and the picture isn't so pretty. | | | | website, like a $40 unlimited-sushi-buffet coupon |
| As a whole, we Americans feel pretty down | | | | for $20. The key is to email your friends and get |
| about our personal finances, the economy, and | | | | them to buy into the coupon (hence the name). |
| our job security. And while most of us are | | | | You get sushi, they get sushi, you all save money. |
| struggling to make ends meet, we're still reaching | | | | Everybody wins. (Except the tuna.) |
| for the stars, wanting to buy bigger, better and | | | | Tip #3: Get a Little ExerciseWhen you're down in |
| more. | | | | the dumps, going for a workout is probably the |
| Readers, it's time to stop the insanity. | | | | last thing you want to do. (Curling up on the couch |
| Whether you've been laid off, are looking for a | | | | in your favorite sweatpants with a pint of Ben |
| new job, or you're just feeling anxious about | | | | & Jerry's probably sounds much more |
| keeping your current position, there are two | | | | appealing.) |
| problems at hand. The first is that most of us are | | | | But like it or not, exercise is one of the best |
| taking home smaller paychecks than we used to. | | | | things you can do to get out of a stress- or |
| The second is that we haven't reduced the | | | | finance-induced funk. Running, biking, or even |
| expectations we're placing on ourselves. | | | | walking around the block releases endorphins, |
| That's why the myFootpath team has put | | | | those wonderful little chemicals that put a spring in |
| together these five tips that will simultaneously | | | | your step and a smile on your face. |
| help you reduce stress and survive these tough | | | | And best of all, there's no extra calories, |
| economic times. | | | | hangover, or buyer's remorse later on. |
| Tip #1: Stop Keeping Up With the Joneses | | | | Tip #4: Enjoy What's Free |
| According to the MetLife study, "Three in ten | | | | When things are tough, we all need a pick-me-up. |
| (29%) [Americans] feel more pressure to buy | | | | Unfortunately, most of the pick-me-ups we're |
| more and better material possessions," even while | | | | accustomed to cost money, from spa treatments |
| they're struggling financially. | | | | to Starbucks vanilla lattes. |
| It's time to put down that Prada purse and step | | | | But while you may not be able to afford an |
| away from the Mercedes. Be realistic about what | | | | exotic vacation to the south of France this year, |
| you can and can't afford. Stop beating yourself up | | | | don't forget the amazing (and free) resources all |
| if you can't buy the latest iPhone. Believe it or not, | | | | around you. How bout going for a bike ride in the |
| you'll feel better about yourself and less stressed | | | | forest preserve in the next county over? What |
| in the long run if you keep those extra dollars in | | | | about packing a picnic dinner and taking it to your |
| your pocket. | | | | local beach? |
| Tip #2: Get Your Coupon (or Groupon) On | | | | Check out your city and state websites to find |
| Have you ever noticed how everyday items and | | | | out what free or discounted options there are at |
| necessities seem eat away at your paycheck? | | | | your local museums, concert venues, and state |
| Reduce your grocery bill by clipping coupons. | | | | parks. |
| Check out your Sunday paper each week for | | | | 5. Balance Your Budget |
| deals on everything from toothpaste to sunblock | | | | We know. It's the last thing anyone wants to do, |
| to bananas. Yes, we know, 50 cents doesn't | | | | especially when you're financial situation isn't the |
| seem like a lot. But 50 cents on a few items each | | | | greatest. But trust us, sitting down and figure out |
| week can add up to major savings over time. | | | | exactly where you stand financially is a lot better |
| And just because you're saving money doesn't | | | | than hoping and praying that it's all going to work |
| mean you can't go out and have some fun once | | | | out ok. |
| in awhile. Groupon is like a grocery coupon for fun | | | | Plus, it will allow you to make the adjustments |
| stuff, from five-course tasting menus at swanky | | | | you need to survive on your current income. |
| steakhouses to serious deals on hot yoga | | | | (And that might be the best stress relief of all. |
| packages. | | | | |