Everyone has had a period of time that they have felt bad about their current financial situation. However, it isn’t usually all that bad. Of course, it could be better, but always remember it could also be worse. There are a few things you may have that you should be deeply thankful for.
A Steady Job
One of the things many people can be thankful for is having a steady job. Regardless of whether it’s part time or full time job, a job where you receive a paycheck each week is something to be very thankful for. Considering that many people are without steady income, even a little bit helps.
Having Insurance
If you have any type of insurance – health, homeowners, renters, car, etc. – you should consider yourself lucky. Even if you’re insurance isn’t the best plan available, you’re still better off than a lot of people who don’t have insurance. For instance, just imagine how much money you might have to pay out of pocket if something happens.
Investment Fees are Lower
If you invest your money, you must be happy that investment fees are lower than they were ten or twenty years ago. Investing can be a great way to accrue more money – provided your investments pay off, that is. Investment has changed a lot over the years and a lot of the chances have made a more positive financial impact for investors.
Borrowing from Friends or Family
Do you have friends and family who have offered to lend you money in times of need? Not everyone has those opportunities, so be lucky if you have financially stable friends and family members you can rely on. In turn, they’re probably just as thankful if you’re someone who can offer to help them out.
Low Mortgage Rates
Anyone who is paying a mortgage, trying to refinance a house, or thinking of buying a house is probably happy to see that mortgage rates are incredibly low. Right now rates have dropped below 4% and economists expect that rates will remain low for the foreseeable future. Even the slightest dip in interest rates for mortgages is a financial relief.
Having a 401(k)
Those of you who work at a company that offers a savings plan are lucky, especially if your company offers a high percentage match. While this might be seen as money you’re not immediately seeing flow into your bank account, it will help you out once you retire. Considering the future of Social Security is up in the air, having a 401(k) to fall back on is a great thing to have. If your company offers a 401(k) plan that you’re not currently signed up for, you should look into it.
Scholarships, Sponsors, and Financial Assistance
Many people complain about certain state or federal programs that offer assistance to those with limited finances, and while some of these programs have their flaws, they also have some great advantages. For instance, financial aid or scholarships can help lighten a student’s tuition bill, financial assistance programs can help people have their medical bills or prescriptions covered, or sponsor programs can help children or adults achieve the school, career, or life goals they need to succeed. Anyone who has received help from these programs is almost always grateful for them.
You’re Debt Free
If you’re debt free, you’re one of the lucky few. So many people are swimming in school, medical, or credit card debt. Debt can be hard to get rid of, especially if you don’t have the funds to pay off those bills each month. Being debt free – or at least having a steady plan for paying off your debt without floundering – is one less thing for you to worry about.
Photo: Flickr: Cindi Albright
Alexa Mason is the blogger behind Single Moms Income, a personal finance freelance writer, and an online entrepreneur. Come hang out with her on Facebook and Pinterest.
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