Time is Catching Up

It always does.  Decisions for short term comfort have long term consequences. Sometimes these consequences are unseen, but often consequences are ignored because the immediate gain is calling now. The extra desert becomes added weight year after year.

We don’t save enough for the future because of debts for cars, vacations and over priced schools. We underfund our retirement and underestimate how long we will live. Few of us imagine the health care challenges of old age in our twenties.

Central Banks over stimulating liquidity for too long has resulted in inflated asset/property values. Stocks and real estate are reaching record highs. Very low interest rates have businesses doing financial engineering stock buy backs, instead of investing in growth. Stock prices to earnings get inflated.

Politicians make promises like generous pensions or health care, and then underfund them because of budget shortfalls. Eventually they cannot be fully paid and retirees suffer. Government debt has doubled twice over the last 20 years. Many cities and states are going bankrupt. Will the Federal Government follow them?

Voting for the politician who promises more services. Taking money from others sounds good. But your taxes go up when the cost is more than “The Rich” have. Instead the taxes fall on the working class.

CEOs accept outrageous raises, while employee salaries are limited or employees are laid off for outsourcing. Companies move new production to different states to get incentives, leaving employees behind. It feels good to be recognized for your leadership. But employees struggle to pay bills and/or leave family & friends behind to find work.

The solution is taking responsibility. Not just for yourself. Take responsibility for family, neighbors, and strangers. Inside your community and in the outside world.

Cut spending now and keep saving for hard times that always come. Balance your budget. Pay off debts. Buy insurance. Review options and make uncomfortable choices.

Advocate for less fortunate. Keep people safe from scams. Service to others comes with leadership. The world is connected. We have to help people, and accept help when we need it.

Together we can find ways to improve or manage situations.