How has the economy affected you?

This economy has also affected me quite a bit. I lost my first real full-time job in September of last year and have not been successful in getting interviews for another position since. I took another part-time job and a serious pay cut, compared to the loss and leaving my last p-t job for it, so I could get off unemployment wages and continue paying the bills throughout the whole ordeal.

I really cut back on purchasing new artwork this year, but I am still very active and enjoy being around as well as a part of this community. I like to update at least 5-6 times a year; but, this year it seems I will only make it to at least 3-4. Not that I'm complaining... who doesn't want to take a break from scanning and editing in Photoshop?? ;-)

Now, I've taken on 2 more "on-call" part-time positions because my employer is cutting back hours and the holidays are coming up. I have definitely learned how to control my cel spending since and try to focus on what I need to do.... like fix my car and sue someone by Christmas. Those are two Definite goals... with a capital D. Anything else that I think of for that goal list will be budgeted accordingly. :)

Currently, I am in medical school and have been in school for the past 4 years. So, the economy has not quite affected me as it has done with other people in the job market. I know in a few more months, I will be working as a physician. However, this has started making me more and more cautious as to what I have been spending, and I have begun to get extremely picky and fearful of making investments of certain production art, especially now that I do not know exactly where I stand in terms of how much funds I will have in the next few months.

Wow! It is almost the end of the year 2010! Woot!!! YIPPIE!!! =)

So for those or you working, studying, or actively searching for jobs, how do you feel about our economy? Do you feel more confident about your finances and keeping or securing a job? Would love to hear what is new.

Oh and of course, share any shopping (outside of cels) tips. We can all use some money saving tips don't we? ;)