The universe has a few things on offer that can makes things easier for people at the moment. Mortgage rates have tumbled below 5%, a good opportunity to refinance if you meet the guidelines, don't overlook the government (FHA) programs which are easier to qualify for. Credit unions have funds to lend and decent rates, can be an opportunity to refinance a car loan. Watch for amazing deals on cars this spring.
There are opportunities to lock in heating oil prices in different parts of the country, natural gas prices are down saving some money. If you have vacation plans, there are huge savings on air fares and hotels, with many sales going on, don't worry if you miss them, there are more coming.
Cable companies are offering savings if you ask for them, Dell is offering employee pricing on computers and have great deals on refurbished computers with warranty.
Great opportunities are there to reduce costs, it's not all doom and gloom.
In fact Apple is selling more Ipods and phones than before, earning record profits, at the same time selling their products at full price. If the product is well designed people will want it bad times or not. Another retailer, The Buckle had a sales increase of 13.5% in December, locally here in Denver Schwab is hiring 500 people for its offices.
There is good news out there, just takes a little effort to find it. Though gas prices have risen slightly the last few weeks, they are 50% less than this time last year, before the big summer run up in price.
Take advantage of what is available.