by Samantha J. Adkins

Created on: May 11, 2009   Last Updated: May 19, 2009

Is the recession taking a bite out of your spirits? If you are not a born optimist, these tips can help you to see the silver lining shimmering around the black cloud of financial crisis.

A SHIFT IN POPULARITY

Cheap people everywhere rejoice during a recession. Finally, they become wise, sought-after in people who can do no wrong. They come out of the woodwork in droves, spouting their fabulous money-saving ideas, laughing at the wastefulness of their peers. Television commercials now promote how inexpensive products are. Impress your co-workers by how much you saved rather than how much you spent.

DATING IS SO MUCH EASIER

With a recession on, who has the money to shop around? Pose as a guy or girl who doesn't need much and you will become a hot commodity in the dating world. Bring coupons along on your date and your suitor will not know what hit him or her. A note to married people: you no longer have to fear your spouse cheating on you. Who can afford the dinners out, the hotel rooms and the gifts required of an affair? Your wayward mate will find it a relief to come home to watch re-runs on t.v. and eat leftovers.

IT'S SO ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY

You had to sell your car? Can't afford to fill up the S.U.V? No more winter vacation in the Bahamas? Not to fear! You're not poor, you're just being environmentally friendly. Join the thousands who now have to walk, bike or take the bus to work and vacation at the local pool. You're really helping the earth for the next generation.

THRIFT STORE BUSINESS IS BOOMING

You no longer have to worry about those trendy fashion magazines and ridiculous runway creations, simply look to the local thrift store. Business is never better than during a recession. You might even meet your perfect date sifting through the racks while you're at it.

THE LIBRARY IS A WONDERFUL PLACE

Can't afford to buy books, movies or even the newspaper anymore? Just think of all the people you can meet at the library. Now you don't have to read the newspaper all alone at home, you can join the throngs of teenagers and homeless people pawing the one tattered copy at the library. Plus, you can enjoy the competition of trying to get one of the few good DVD's from the shelves. Race a harried mother to the one copy of Dora the Explorer or the exhausted businessman to the only Casino Royale video. You can increase your competitive edge by requesting the library to hold popular titles for you. Wait until the last possible pick-up date to increase the irritation of fellow patrons.

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