What should I do now? You decide.

 

Six months have passed since my last post.  If this blog were a farm in the Old West, iconic tumble weeds that signify no man’s land would blow in the wind across barren fields. Unfortunately, my interest and will to continue in the fight against rogue banks have waned.  Likewise, the excitement and feedback from my supporters have equally diminished. My causes–to share my personal story, to take on the big banks, to educate consumers, and to change the financial system–are old news. So, what’s next?

Well, earlier this year, I worked on an outline for a book that would narrate my story, provide basic tips on how to manage personal credit, and describe the current industry and future trends. I got no further than the outline and a brief summary before I lost interest. I suppose it had something to do with Kickstarter, a popular crowd funding website, rejecting my project. Who can blame them, though?  The book I was hoping to fund would certainly be controversial and compromise the company’s relationships with none other than credit card companies. How could I be so naïve?

Since then, I have dithered on how to proceed. Should I shut down this blog? (If only TypePad didn’t charge a monthly fee!) Should I leave it online as an educational resource?  Should I publish a book? Should I disappear as if nothing happened?  How do I translate my efforts into a legacy that will help people time and time again?  These are the questions that gnaw at me. My biggest fear is to have labored in vain.      

I need your help. I have not made much progress in determining my next step, so I would love to hear what you think I should do at this point. Many of you have supported me and this blog, and I value with the highest regard your input. Thank you.

Suze Orman's new book: A waste or a must read?

Suze Orman has always been a favorite of mine. I love her enthusiasm and ability to give financial advice at a practical level and in simple terms.  However, her advice doesn’t hold my attention much anymore. I guess I have developed a need to understand the financial world at more complex levels. But from time to time, I catch myself watching her show, especially when she decides whether or not someone can afford something.  It’s more entertainment and voyeurism than education.

While on the Oprah Winfrey Show yesterday, Orman promoted her new book, 2009 Action Plan, a free PDF that anyone can download.  I hadn’t planned on checking it out until my father, a self-proclaimed credit guru, sent me the PDF today.  I immediately skimmed the pocket-sized financial vade mecum, but focused on the section that gives advice on credit. I found some good solid information, but was hoping for more.

She opens the chapter on credit stating, “The banking industry is running scared.”  She continues saying, “Your FICO score may drop--not because you changed your financial behavior, but because the credit card companies changed the rules on you.”   That was music to my ears, especially since the title of this much needed blog is New Credit Rules: New Rules for a New Economy.  Overall, this book will help educate millions of consumers on sound financial habits and some of the new tactics of terrified banks.