USA – Still the Land of Opportunity
There is no doubt we are facing times more precarious than any other. We all still have choices though. This is one of the beauties of living in the USA. We have the choice and freedom of speech, religion, where we want to live and work – unlike so many others in the world. With a determined mindset you can create opportunities for yourself while others are paralyzed and doing nothing. You can choose to sit back and play the “victim”, or you can be the master of your own destiny. Which will you choose?
When I am on the fence, I think back to the story of when my great-grandparents emigrated here from Italy. They were young and heard that the USA is a place they could raise a family with many opportunities. Both were familiar with hard work, plus with 3 young children – they new it would be a challenge. But, because they had drive and determination they decided to take a chance to fulfill their dream of a better life.
My great grandfather came first. He settled in Montana, working in the mines. Originally, he had planned to work a couple of months and send money to my great-grandmother for her and the kids to join him. Months went by with not much communication (10 to be exact) – these were the days of no phones let alone email, so word traveled slowly. I come from a family of very strong willed and determined women, (those who know me can attest to this) so my great-grandmother borrowed money from her family to make the journey to the USA. She and 3 young children traveled alone on the ship, across the continent to Montana, not knowing one word of English – so she could find her husband and they could be a family again. Imagine his surprise when she showed up one day!
He continued working in the mines and she opened a boarding house …. the life they ended up creating was actually pretty interesting. The point being though, they had determination, and did not falter in their belief that their life could be better. They strove to do what was needed – they learned a little English, they found a niche business, they focused on their values. Ask yourself a couple of questions…..
- What are you doing to create that success mindset for yourself?
- Do you still think this is a land of opportunity?
- Are you willing to go into uncharted territories to pursue your dreams? (Doesn’t need to be as dramatic as leaving the country- but getting out of your “comfort zone”)
- Have you evaluated your strengths and passions – so you can find the right “niche”?
You deserve to be successful, but only you can make it happen. Despite our current economy – those who are willing to make the effort will be rewarded. There are so many lucrative opportunities for an honest business when you take the time to look.
Until next time, J.
“Take control of your destiny or someone else will”
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January 08 2009 01:12 pm | Home Business Ideas, Misc Ranting, Wealth Strategies, personal development
January 14th, 2009 at 8:25 am
I think we all want to believe in the land of opportunity, but right now it’s limited because necessity has the upper hand. We have to take the jobs we can get instead of the jobs we want, we have to stay with those jobs to provide for our families instead of putting all of our energy into a new project.
corrins last blog post..Start your New Year’s Resolution with a Cleanse!
January 14th, 2009 at 9:14 am
Yeah Im sorry but I think Australia is much better. Some of the things I have heard people talk about how hard it is to just have a baby. The lose of income is so sugnificant, being a single mother is nearly unbareable and even loosing a job!
Dont get me wrong I like SOME things about America but what I have heard, really puts me off and I feel so sad for some one the struggling people.
LadyGraces last blog post..Domestic Goddess
January 14th, 2009 at 12:09 pm
Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment. Although I have not been to Australia, it’s certainly one of the top places I’d like to visit and get to know more about. I’d also like to believe possibly the news you see is “sensationalizing” what is going on here – but, unfortunately, in many cases I don’t think it is.
Corrin, I understand too how hard it is to have the energy left after a full day of working somewhere (especially when it doesn’t “feed your soul”) to possibly pursue a side business. Maybe you could consider something the whole family could get involved with – that way all of you could still spend time together and reap the rewards together as well.
Best of luck!
January 14th, 2009 at 2:19 pm
I’m so frustrated with the economy and our situation right now. I hate my job, my husband is trying to grown his own business, and we’re just barely paying the bills. I’m usually not a pessimistic person, but I don’t think things are going to get better any time soon. I think we’re going to be taxed more than we are expecting in the coming years.
Sadies last blog post..The Winter Blues
January 14th, 2009 at 3:58 pm
I”m definitely on the same page as you Janet. Yes, the economy is bad..it really is and it probably won’t be gaining momentum for awhile. However, that doesn’t mean there isn’t opportunity and alternatives. For some reason the majority of people get sucked in by the media. I stopped watching the news in December and I read something positive everyday. The internet is drawing in more and more people daily because many want solutions. Many are finding answers. I have met and worked with these people- it’s real and anyone can do it. You have to see it and believe in yourself…and simply Do. It’s out there and there is something for everyone IF you really want it.
Maureens last blog post..Jonathan Budd’s MLM Mastermind System
January 14th, 2009 at 4:00 pm
I just had an error, so I’m going to repost- hopefully it will only show up once!
I”m definitely on the same page as you Janet. Yes, the economy is bad..it really is and it probably won’t be gaining momentum for awhile. However, that doesn’t mean there isn’t opportunity and alternatives. For some reason the majority of people get sucked in by the media. I stopped watching the news in December and I read something positive everyday. The internet is drawing in more and more people daily because many want solutions. Many are finding answers. I have met and worked with these people- it’s real and anyone can do it. You have to see it and believe in yourself…and simply Do. It’s out there and there is something for everyone IF you really want it.
Maureens last blog post..Jonathan Budd’s MLM Mastermind System
January 14th, 2009 at 6:43 pm
Janet, Im talking about people through online message boards. The troubles they are going through (I dont pay much attention to the news). Just these are my online friends and they are always struggling it makes me sad because if it was over here I would help them, and it woudl be easy to help them. I know people struggle over here I just think there are better options here at times.
LadyGraces last blog post..Party
January 14th, 2009 at 6:54 pm
I think it is easier to talk about the bad things in a venue where no one really knows us. Things can be good but it is more entertaining to talk about the rough patches.
January 14th, 2009 at 7:33 pm
I still believe that we are the land of opportunity. it just might not look that way at the moment. Mindset is the key to everything, and it truly can set you free!
Barbaras last blog post..Relax With Barbara On Wednesday 21
January 14th, 2009 at 10:11 pm
i’m trying to be positive, and i’m hoping the people who say things could turn around by the third quarter of the year are right, but i get a little nervous when i start hearing that our property taxes could start going up.
cadys last blog post..Aging
January 15th, 2009 at 1:45 am
I count my blessings every day that I found blogging what I did. It is provided me opportunities I never would have otherwise have.
I just hope we can return to the land of opportunity that we once were.
Lisas last blog post..What kind of day are you having?
January 15th, 2009 at 12:42 pm
I believe you are all right with your comments. We do have reason to worry, if not for ourselves for our children’s future. The kind of tax burdens they will inherit are almost unimaginable to most of us. However, I also believe that with positive thought and ACTION we can make a comfortable lives for ourselves and families. There is not one of you who is afraid of taking chances or afraid of failure, because you are determined. Determination fosters one to be open minded and creative. There are numerous “side businesses” one can do to supplement ones income – continue taking action for yourself. I wish you all success and prosperity.
Janets last blog post..Working Women—Four Steps to Securing Retirement
January 15th, 2009 at 2:05 pm
The story about your grandparents brought tears to my eyes. I can easily relate to their hardships and don’t think those times were any easier than today. However, opportunities are not limited or exclusively assigned to a certain territory/country, we can find successful people all around the world…
daria369s last blog post..How natural…
January 15th, 2009 at 9:22 pm
Amazing story of a difficult life – but a very rewarding one!
I know the possibilities are out there still – even with a depression/recession taking place. And, I think anyone in the blogging/web/social media arena is in a great position to find opportunities.
Heather in Beautiful BCs last blog post..Earn an Easy $10.00 via Paypal
January 16th, 2009 at 1:36 am
Is it because people were more suited, better adapted, to work harder for what they want – have we gotten lazy? I hope not. And yes, I’m holding my breath for the new administration to take over – can’t happen fast enough as far as I’m concerned. I don’t expect miracles, but a government of the people for the people will be such a huge relief. I believe in hope! Great post!
Diane Scotts last blog post..Aikido Ancient Martial Art
January 16th, 2009 at 2:54 pm
Since my husband was laid off and no work for computer engineers in this town, it has forced him to follow his passion and start up his own company. He has NEVER been happier, so this is a blessing in disguise for many entrepreneurs.
Julies last blog post..Affiliate Summit West 2009 Bloghaus Blog Mistress
January 16th, 2009 at 10:41 pm
Bad economy really affects many people and I am just so sad with the situation we have right now.. So finding another alternative is really a must to keep going on this pace of our lives..
Bhings last blog post..Inspiring Phrase In The Morning
January 17th, 2009 at 8:55 pm
When one door closes, another one opens (as long as we keep an open mind). Thanks to each of you for sharing your opinions and concerns.
Wishing you positive outcomes in all of your endeavors!
Janets last blog post..Workaholics Anonymous
January 19th, 2009 at 11:13 pm
That is a wonderful story about your Great grand-parents!! We know things don’t look good, but there is always hope and determination and keeping a positive attitude! Thanks for sharing!
Your FL furiends,
Samantha & Mr, Tiggers last blog post..ManCat Monday with Mr. Tigger