Financial Shakeup this weekend

[Darren]

Wellardmac wrote:

I think that the entitlement mentality is part of the issue - Americans are not prepared to work hard anymore. It's also more expensive to make things in the US than other places, so production gets outsourced.

I think you're right that this is part of the problem. I can't comment on what people are thinking across the country, but I can comment on the people I know and what they are doing.

I have 2 friends who are doctors going through their residency. They are working 60 or so hours per week for about $35k per year. Even after their residency, they are looking at insurance rates and student loans that will make it tough for them for a long long time! You'd have to be nuts to want to get into the medical field unless you are doing it soley to help people.

I have another friend who is an entry level lawyer in NYC who is working about the same number of hours, 60 or so, and is making about $70k/year which is tough to live on in the city! With her student loans she can't afford an apartment and lives with family!

When its difficult/impossible for doctors and lawyers to make money, there is something seriously broken with the American Dream. I personally want out of it -- I'd love to sell everything I own (except 1 track car) and buy a 40' sailboat to live on. Winter you'll find me down in the islands