Could 2009 surprise maybe in a good way?

2008 ended on a very downbeat note and 2009 isn't really supposed to be any better, according to the economic news. So, while everybody was going through the New Year's routine of happiness and cheering, there's a strong feeling that we best jump right over to 2010, if we only could. Or maybe not? I'm an optimistic person and here's why I hope that 2009 could turn out differently:

• Obama's taking over for president. He can't do magic, but at least 70% to 80% of the Americans should feel much relief over the fact that the Bush years are over. And since an economic downturn is mostly a psychological phenomenon, that could help a lot.
• Maybe it's just me, but I haven't seen a turn to the worse in such a short amount of time ever before. Literally from one week to the other the outlook got worse and companies immediately obliged by laying off hundreds of thousands. Even those who still have their jobs feel the urge to cut back heavily. Which means that expectations are at the rock bottom and every little piece of good news will feel like a victory. Which again could make feel people better and help to turn things around.
• Finally, and that's very vague, there's the Internet, which could change the way we live and do business yet again. Something is going on right now and I don't think that anybody knows where it leads to, but there's an unprecedented amount of communication happening between people who would never had the opportunity to meet or talk in real life. This may be all immature right now, but it could spark something new (and hopefully not a bubble again).

Of course, nobody knows what will happen in 2009, but this is how I keep myself motivated and hopeful.

Comments

[Elke Nominikat]

You're not alone, Oliver! I feel like a big weight has been taken off my chest when I see Obama's picture in the papers. It can only change to the better although it won't be easy, at least not for everybody.

The other new phenomenon that you've pointed out, the shared state of misery that occurred so suddenly is silly. What's up with all the worry? When did ever something get better by worrying? It just keeps your mind busy with thoughts that you could use to create something meaningful. That's why we should enjoy what we have, explore new opportunities, never stop learning and stay happy!