Government Shutdown

The last time the U.S. had a government shutdown was from December 16, 1995 to January 6, 1996.
The reason behind the conflict was due to funding for Medicare and public health in the 1996 federal budget.  As a result the Dow Jones dropped from 5176.73 on December 15 to 5075 on December 18 the first Monday of the shutdown.  Stocks rebounded a few days after January 6, 1996 then collapsed once again. By the end of January stocks came back aggressively.

But this isn't 1995 we just came out of the worst recession since the 1930's.  Our economy is not healthy enough to handle a shutdown especially with unemployment at 7.3% and slow U.S. annual growth. The market is already showing the blow this will bring to a brittle economy the DJI closed at 15,129 a 128 point drop for the day.

5 Ways To Get Ideas To Start A Business

If you find yourself with a strong desire to start a business but can't seem to get started or lack ideas read the following 5 pointers to get your creativity flowing:

1. Travel
Get out there look at different communities see what the daily routine looks like in every country or state you visit.  Check out the markets and the major employers. Do you see products/services that are to your liking that you don't find in your hometown?

2. Meet People
Think you have the people you need in your life think again there is always something to be learned from your fellow man.  We don't know it all and by meeting others we get to see how they think and how they view life.  It may surprise you that every so often you meet people that will need your help or may have the answer you are looking for.  They may also give you ideas about things you don't even know about.

3. Look at Art
When was the last time you went to a museum? Go to art galleries see what is in peoples' minds and hearts.  I have seen some original work that has blown my mind and exhibits that have inspired me.  Check out this artist's work Erik Plambeck to view this exhibit you have to clock in and out.  People that work in advertisement go to art galleries to get ideas for their next commercial I can see why.

4. Try To Solve A Problem
Start at home do you see a problem that needs fixing? Maybe you have a recipe to make vegetable chips that's what made Dana Sinkler and Alex Dzieduszycki the creators of Terra Chips rich.  If you don't find the answer right in your home then take a walk around your neighborhood do you see any services or products that would help the community?

5. Look At Other Businesses
Read about failed businesses and why they didn't work.  Look at businesses in your area see if you can think of ways on how to improve them.  Check out the businesses that are for sale on eBay to get ideas or to pick up where the owner left off.  Make sure you find out the real reason the owner is selling the business. Research the new trends in your local businesses as they may hold answers to what you should be looking for.

Get guidance before you start your business but don't take too long or over think the process.  You don't want to be a part of the take your dream to the grave team.  Good luck!

5 Ways To Save Money Year Round

I read a lot of articles about saving money and they either tell you to cut coupons or to shop for specific items during certain holidays. To me that sounds too complicated.  Here are a few simple ways to save no matter the season:

1. Buy Ahead of Time When Traveling
Nothing fancy here just book that flight well in advance.  When using Greyhound, Megabus, Metro-North and Amtrak the strategy is the same book your tickets well in advance and save the difference. You can travel in between states for cheap if you book ahead.  If you want to really be frugal bring your own food to eat on the ride.

2. Buy Used
When you buy new you pay for the depreciation on that item.  I draw the line when it comes to clothes and computers but there are lots of people that don't mind buying used clothing.
 
3. Barter
I love trading movies and electronics with friends.  Sometimes I just give items I don't need to my friends and when the time comes they return the favor.  Post your items online, you never know who wants your old stuff and what they are willing to trade for it.

4. Go Digital
If you have a computer/laptop you basically have all you need to entertain yourself.  Music, movies, information, games, books and just about everything else can be found online for free.

5. Use Promotional Codes
Before you buy an item online search for promo codes to get an extra 10% off or to get free shipping. You can also let the item rest on your shopping cart for a day or so to decide if you really need the item.