How To Prepare for The Upcoming Recession

By Ashwini Nathany

Posted on January 19, 2023

A recession is a period of economic decline, typically defined as a decline in a country’s gross domestic product (GDP) for two or more consecutive quarters. During a recession, employment levels and business activity decrease, and consumer spending and investment decrease.

There have been several major recessions throughout history, some of the most notable include:

• The Great Depression of the 1930s: This was the longest and most severe economic downturn of the 20th century. It began with the stock market crash of 1929 and lasted until the late 1930s.
• The recession of the early 1980s: This recession was characterized by high interest rates, high inflation, and high unemployment.
• The early 1990s recession: This recession was caused by a combination of factors, including a slowdown in consumer spending, the savings and loan crisis, and the Gulf War.
• The 2008-2009 Global Financial Crisis: This recession was caused by the collapse of the U.S. housing market, which led to a global financial crisis and a severe recession.
• The 2020-2021 COVID-19 Pandemic-induced recession: This recession was caused by the pandemic and the subsequent lock-downs, travel bans and quarantine measures, which caused a sharp decline in consumer spending, travel, and business activity worldwide.

According to experts we are again on the verge of another recession. We need to be prepared for its effects and find ways to survive it.

Recessions can have a significant impact on people’s lives, both financially and emotionally. Some of the effects of a recession on people include:

• Job Loss: Recessions often lead to layoffs, reduced hours, and wage cuts. This can lead to financial insecurity and stress for individuals and families.
• Reduced income: When jobs are lost or wages are cut, it can lead to a decline in income and purchasing power. This can make it difficult for people to afford basic necessities like housing, food, and healthcare.
• Increased poverty: As a result of job loss and reduced income, more people may fall into poverty during a recession.
• Reduced access to healthcare: Unemployment and reduced income can lead to a loss of health insurance, making it more difficult for people to access healthcare services.
• Increased stress and mental health issues: Financial insecurity and job loss can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and depression.
• Reduced retirement savings: A recession can cause significant declines in the stock market, which can lead to a reduction in retirement savings for those nearing retirement.
• Increased crime rate: Economic downturns are often associated with an increase in crime rates.
• Loss of homes: Some people may lose their homes due to a foreclosure or eviction during a recession.

Recessions can also have a number of additional effects depending on the severity of the downturn and the measures taken by the government to mitigate the impact on people. It’s important to remember that recessions are usually temporary and that the economy will recover over time.

Here are a few strategies that may help you prepare and survive during a recession:

• Build an emergency fund: Having a savings cushion can help you weather unexpected expenses or a loss of income during a recession. Aim to save at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses.
• Reduce debt: High levels of debt can make it difficult to weather a recession. Try to pay off as much debt as possible, starting with high-interest credit card debt.
• Be prepared for job loss: During a recession, layoffs and job losses are common. Having a strong resume and networking connections can help you find a new job more quickly.
• Keep your spending in check: During a recession, it’s important to be mindful of your spending. Prioritize necessary expenses and cut back on discretionary spending.
• Invest in yourself: A recession can also be an opportunity to invest in yourself and your skills. Consider taking a course or getting a certification that can help you advance in your career.
• Be mindful of your mental health: A recession can be stressful, so it’s important to take care of your mental health. Make time for activities that you enjoy, and stay connected with friends and family.
• Be open to opportunities: A recession can also create opportunities, such as starting a business or investing in stocks at lower prices. Be open to new opportunities and consider ways to pivot your career or business.

A few famous quotes that may provide inspiration and motivation for surviving a recession:

• “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.” – Chinese Proverb
• “The biggest adventure you can take is to live the life of your dreams.” – Oprah Winfrey
• “A recession is when your neighbor loses his job; a depression is when you lose yours.” – Harry S. Truman
• “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” – Winston Churchill
• “The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt
• “When the going gets tough, the tough get going.” – Joseph P. Kennedy
• “Don’t let yesterday take up too much of today.” – Will Rogers
• “Hardships often prepare ordinary people for an extraordinary destiny.” – C.S. Lewis
• “Fall seven times, stand up eight.” – Japanese Proverb
• “A setback is only a setup for a comeback.” – Zig Ziglar

These quotes may provide some inspiration during difficult times and a recession, remember that it’s important to stay positive, be flexible and be open to new opportunities during a recession.

How To Prepare for The Upcoming Recession