The U.S. Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) is an indicator designed to measure consumer confidence, which is defined as the degree of optimism on the state of the economy that consumers are expressing through their activities of savings and spending.
But with violent protests in the Middle East, a devastating earthquake that struck Japan, foreclosures and job losses, people are growing nervous, and that unease is taking an economic toll. With oil prices rising, high gas pump prices strain consumers’ wallets, and can force businesses to pass high transportation costs on to customers. But this also has another effect: People are forced to cutback and become less inclined to spend money and preserve their savings.
When people do not spend money, a ripple effect occurs. Firms slow the production of goods and services, businesses issue layoffs, and therefore, people have less disposable income.
I believe that if we are going to make a change, then we need to start right in the place where we are, and there is no better place than right smack in the center of our hearts. We need to have grateful hearts.
When we are children, we are taught to say “thank you” when we receive something from someone else. We are taught that it is the polite thing to do. It is easy then, to come to believe that the “thank you” is for the benefit of the giver, but in actuality, “thank you” is even more important for the receiver. Why? Because it puts the receiver in the frame of mind that recognizes that we are one with the abundant flow of the universe.
In fact, the universe is always asking us one and only one question: “What do you want?” We answer that question with the thoughts that we hold in our minds and the actions we take in our world.
So, do you want to start seeing a world of abundance? Then start now by being grateful for the abundance that is already present in your life. Begin with one small thing. Maybe it’s a loved one, or a pet, or a warm meal you are enjoying. Focus on that one thing and allow a deep sense of gratitude for that one thing to seep into every cell of your body. Allow it to warm your heart and deeply touch your soul.
Remember, in the midst of uncertainty, it’s always valuable to reflect on what is really important. During times like these, we have to get back to basics and dig deep into the important values we hold dear. We all know that there are no guarantees in life. So learn to wake up every morning, and be thankful for the new day counting your blessings.
And, who knows, maybe the consumer confidence index might start to show some improvement as well. Change your thoughts, change your life, and change the world!
