'Dear Economy, I'm sorry I never acknowledged your goodness...'

This past summer, my boyfriend Richard enlightened me with a concept I had never heard of. It all happened one early summer day as we had just finished a long run and were strolling along the gulf shore. 

"I just have to work out," Richard said.

I have never been one to get on a strict exercise regimen and replied, "But, why?" 

This is when Richard informed me that it's the whole idea of a 'negative-neutral.' This is probably familiar to a lot of other people, but it was new to me. He explained that if he works out, then its normal. And if he does not work out, then there is something seriously wrong. Basically, a workout should be part of his every day and he doesn't get credit for it when he does. However, if he fails to workout then he is loses credit. In case I have not made this clear (this may be new to others like it was to me!), he can only lose. Not gain.

I was reminded of this mini lesson the other day when talking with him about two popular topics this year: The economy and the job market.

I concluded that it is not fair the state of the economy and the job market are only recognized when they are horrible. If and when the economy is back to where it should be, will we comment, 'Wow, the economy is really great!" Or, "I see you've just graduated college. Lucky you; this is a fabulous job market!" Like Richard's exercise requirement, those two examples are considered negative-neutrals. Understand?

And this can also be applied to customer service. We always go on a rant when we experience poor customer service. It is rare that we commend just 'customer service', much less 'great customer service.' You know, I think the woman that does her straight-forward job of depositing a check at the bank should be applauded. Maybe she didn't give you a lolly pop and a transaction slip with a smiley face and a 'dash Barbara,' but that is fine. Hell, we appreciate that! We just don't show it very often. But, boy oh boy would we ever show it if she accidentally deposited the check into someone else's account.

The negative neutral theory applies to so many things in life. I guess I'd like to end this post by simply saying that when the economy is fine all over again, thus leading to a thriving job market—let us say, 'Man. The economy is awesome. You have really entered the job market at a good time.' And whatever else gets at the idea of 'dear economy, be good. I promise I'll never devalue you ever every again.'

Because isn't it funny how you don't miss something until it's gone?