It weighs on you and crushes your spirit.
I find it painfully amusing when the media reports manufacturing, overall, is up, but that for some mysterious reason, public confidence is low, the stock market is a roller coaster, and retail sales are sluggish. Mysterious reason? Really?
Could it be that every time you take a peak at the news it’s nothing but gloom, doom and economic uncertainty. Could it be the media is reporting every little hint of trouble and creating an aura of fear and apprehension? Um, yeah. I think that plays a very large role in the overall economic malaise and sense of uncertainty. And it makes me angry.
Meanwhile, the grim reality is a lot of people are working harder and making less money. A lot of people no longer feel confident about their job security. A lot of people are just broke. I know. I keep my ear to the ground and know a huge number of people. Heck, I see it in Palladium’s own sales, which have been absolutely abysmal this week. The lowest I’ve seen in a year or two. Maybe the lowest ever. Not good, especially if it continues for any length of time.
I’m not too worried about sales. Part of the low sales is lack of new product, and we have several new books in final production right now. They’ll be coming out in short order and are outstanding, quality product. Their release should make a big difference. We have some smaller, fun items in the pipeline too. I think we’ll be fine.
Still, it is depressing and worrisome, and I think that’s what most people are feeling – depressed, worried and uncertain. Life is difficult and scary for a great many people right now.
My advice is to hang tough, try to be positive, enjoy what you have and be careful with your budget. Don’t over extend yourself and be smart. Get the items you need for yourself and family, but also treat your soul from time to time. That means a day off to enjoy friends and loved ones, or just to rest. That means seeing that movie you’ve been wanting to see, or buying that novel or game book you’ve been drooling over.
I think gamers are luckier than most other people. Our hobby is comparatively inexpensive and an emotional release. You can buy a new sourcebook or game and play for a year. Heck, you can dust off your old books and start up your old campaign or something completely new. Explore the endless possibilities.
On top of more bang for your buck, role-playing games are social and fun. Not only does it allow you to unleash your imagination, stretch your mental muscles and escape into an amazing world of adventure and heroics, but you get to do it all with friends and family. Friends in person, friends on the phone, friends filling your living room or basement with laughter and camaraderie. It doesn’t get better than that, does it?
So hang loose, let your hobby bring you some peace of mind, have some fun, and game on.
Sincerely,
Kevin Siembieda
Publisher, Writer, Game Designer and Two-Bit Philospher
Palladium Books, 29 years of publishing role-playing games
© Copyright July 28, 2010 Palladium Books Inc. All rights reserved.
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