Good Morning,

Economics is all about supply and demand. Yes, it is true, even at our own personal level. If there are a limited number of jobs and a far greater number qualified people applying for them, businesses will offer less pay and benefits with the lowest bidders getting the job. When the opposite occurs and there are only a few people seeking the job and many openings, businesses will offer more and more to attract qualified enough candidates. Yes, this is supply and demand.

I have been teaching, as an adjunct professor at the college level for many years and, always, ask students, as a part of their introduction, to tell what degree they are seeking and what they hope to do with it. It is amazing the number that are hoping to make great money in jobs not in or no longer in demand.

All of us have many talents and tremendous abilities. Whether young, looking for that first job, at mid life changing careers as a result of business decisions made by others, or in old age seeking a post retirement past time, we need to look at where the need is and, not only our education, but how we might use our many other talents and experiences.

Believe it or not, many of today's best paying jobs are those that require us to work with our hands as well as our brain. Try finding a good plumber, electrician, machinist or welder.

Training and education are investments. Whether young or old, we need to invest our time and treasure where we will receive the greatest personal payoff, whether financial or other.

Have a great week,

Jim