The mood of the nation

Here are a few interesting facts that came from the results of Consumer Link surveys over the past few months:

Despite weeks of bad news about the economy, people rate their moods as positive rather than negative as the holiday season approaches. 41% rate their mood as positive, 9% as negative and 50% say their mood is both positive and negative.

Travel intentions for the holidays are down compared to last year for many. 15% plan to travel more than last year, 51% plan to travel the same amount, and 34% plan to travel less.

Fewer people plan to host holiday parties this year than in years past. Last year 40% planned to host, and this year 31% plan to host a party.

Overall people consider their financial situations worse today than in the past: 49% consider it worse. However people are optimistic about the future: 67% believe their personal financial situation will be better 3 years from now.