Most people these days are having a tough time thanks to the dismal economy. However, there are a few good things about the recession, and here are a few that you might not have thought about:
Children are growing up with a more realistic attitude to money. They’re also more likely to have better manners, as a tough economy means they’re spending more time with their parents.
Consumerism is a thing of the past, and children are likely to be less materialistic as a result.
Patience and empathy, two fantastic values, are coming to the fore more often.
Children are having to wait for things they want, and they’re learning that their friends, peers, and other people around the world are suffering too.
Imagination is flourishing in children, as they’re encouraged to play more, and watch television and play computer games less.
DIY has become the new chic, and families are spending time learning all kinds of arts and crafts they would never have bothered with before.
Families are healthier, in general, as they eat less convenience foods. Anecdotally, parents are smoking and drinking less too.
Opportunities to change your life are on the cards. Starting a small business, or changing careers, is far more likely to happen during a recession.
With work being less of a focus, many couples are reconnecting emotionally – which makes for happier families.
Recycling, including buying second hand, and returning to ‘hand me down’ clothing is on the rise.
Waste is down, thanks to a more pro active approach to not wasting resources, and money.
More people are walking or using public transport, which means they’re healthier, and the planet is better off.
Family time, doing old fashioned things like playing games, or having picnics, is on the rise.
Families, including extended families, are also becoming closer, as they’re forced to spend more time together.
Holidays and birthdays are becoming less commercial, and more about spending time with family.
Family dinners, once forgotten, are becoming more popular, as people eat at home more often.
As people travel less, communities are experiencing a new lease on life.
House prices are down, so if you’re in the market to buy, there’s never been a better time.
Prices in general are down, as retailers adjust their pricing to suit recession hit pockets.
With more time on their hands, more people are paying attention to public services, schooling and other important things in their community, which benefits everyone.
So as you can see, there are plenty of small benefits that the current and recent economic crises have to offer.
