We are all concerned about the current national economy but for most of us it is hard to understand what all of the numbers and statistics mean to us. With reports from economy experts, statistical analysts, and media gossip it is difficult to get a grasp on what’s really going on. Here are a few key numbers and what they mean, specifically, to the average working person.

The first number that is important to us is the national unemployment rate. This statistic is given in percentage and tells us, investors, and other countries how our job market is doing. If the unemployment rate is low then that means that there is a small amount of unemployed persons which usually means greater spending and better prosperity for the entire country. Currently we have an unemployment rate of 8.1% which is a 25 year high. Not good.

The next number is important to each and every one of us. It is a prediction made by skilled and experienced economic analysts that gives us an idea of how many jobs are predicted to be lost. In this case, it is 2.4 million within the next year. This is very bad news for everyone. This would bring the unemployment rate to 9%.

Losing jobs hurts the economy by reducing consumer spending therefore forcing businesses to close and results in further job loss. It also results in homes being foreclosed, more defaulted loans, and an increased need for government assistance.

There are some numbers however, that can bring hope to us. The current prediction by economy experts is that by 2013 we will be in a post-recession state. This is only four years away, just a short time in the scheme of national economics. The thing about the way money works it that it is like a ripple effect. We are feeling the blow now of things that have happened months ago. And, likewise, it takes time to see the effects of an economic upturn.

The experts say that there are two major clues when the economy is getting ready to gear up again- an increase in temporary workers and more available hours for those who have managed to keep their jobs. These two things should get the gears turning to increase consumer spending which will, in turn, drive up the demand for products. This results in the creation of permanent jobs to fill the demand and the cycle continues upwards.

So hold in there and keep doing what you are doing. Keep working, keep spending, and also keep saving. Better times are just around the corner.