The negative pundits say it’s never been this bad — but that’s not what history tells us, and the lessons of history are the only real facts we hold. Let’s take a look at days gone by, previous recessions, the bursting bubbles that caused them, and how they ended:

A very good friend of mine (who shall remain nameless so that we can remain friends) had to give a presentation. She spent days on her PowerPoint presentation and the graphics; purchased a brand new laser pointer, and shiny new batteries. She even purchased an IPAD so that she could have the convenience of electronic notes. Knowing that she would ask for my professional opinion, I suggested that she record her presentation. When my friend asked for my feedback, in order to maintain our friendship. I said, “You should watch the recording and then tell me what you think.”

As a professional speaker and speaking coach, people often ask me, “How can I inject humor into my speech or presentation?” This query is usually followed by some comical ideas. “Maybe I could tell a joke, fall down the stairs, or have a large flower on my lapel squirt someone in the eye,” they suggest. While that makes me laugh, quite honestly the answer is simple. You can’t force humor into your presentation or speech. You just need to pay attention to the people and situations around you, and you’ll find a wealth of material to weave into a humorous speech.