My Tips for Dealing with Uncertainty Like What the U.S. is Facing Today

But what can the individual do? And just to summarize, what can the collective do to stop or slow the decline that clearly, you know, you can measure has occurred?

First, be financially strong. Have a good income and balance sheet. Think about how many months or years you could live if you didn't have an income. The more financial security you have, the more maneuverability you have both to protect yourself on the downside and to take advantage of opportunities.

Know how to achieve a balanced portfolio; this is very important, I think, financially. And then, be with people—your community is the source of happiness. Psychologists have studied that, above a basic level, income is not a source of happiness. Community is the highest ranked source of happiness.

So, how you work well with others is crucial. I think meaningful work and meaningful relationships are vital to being productive and to also have the joy of those relationships. I think it is of paramount importance.

Then, also realize what the risks are. That's why I wrote them in the book. You know, the risks of—well, there are many kinds of risks. Do you understand those risks? And where are you? Where do you live? What are those risks?

It’s important to recognize that the world is domestically and internationally breaking into different ideologies and different economic systems, really. That happens state by state, as well as around the world.

Understand which are the places that are the best for you in those circumstances, and be aware of those risks.