The worst things we encounter generally have the potential to become the best things, so I think this economic crisis is going to be good for us. (Sorry if I sound too Pollyanna.) Americans will be forced to assess what's really important and what's just fluff.

The way we handle this mess may be how we show the world and ourselves that we are still a great nation and a great people.

But first we need to get through the holidays. And our current economic woes are going to change this year's holiday celebrations. With that in mind, here are eight strategies to help you make this holiday season the best ever.

1. Barter. Formally or informally, bartering is a great way to trade your excess inventory or down time for products and services that you can use or give as gifts. You can barter informally with your friends, neighbors, clients, suppliers and extended family members. On a more formal level, you can join a barter exchange and trade within a large network of businesses. My favorite barter exchange is NuBarter

2. Create. Now is the perfect time to tap into your creative genius. Make holiday gifts, cards and decorations. Present things you have created, cooked, baked or grown in reusable containers whenever possible.

3. Recycle. Think trash-to-treasure. Sorting though possessions and eliminating clutter feels great. (Plus, without so much stuff, your house and business will look better.) Collect the things you don't use and think about who might enjoy them. Instead of the same old Secret Santa gift exchange, swap unwanted treasures at your company holiday party this year. Or hold an office garage sale at a co-worker's home and meet members of the community at the same time. You could also join a Freecycle group and use the Freecycle concept to give away stuff or find something you need.

4. Negotiate. Everything is negotiable this year. So use your best negotiation skills when making a purchase. Don't hesitate to ask for a better price or a free add-on. Don't forget to negotiate with potential customers as well. In these tough times, you may have to sweeten the pot a little to finalize the deal.

5. Tap local resources. Use the down economy to explore your community's resources. For instance, instead of going to an expensive theme park with your kids during winter break, visit your local public parks and libraries. Additionally, support your local economy and the local business owners who are your neighbors.

6. Commune. Your most valued possession during this economic crisis is your network. Sit down and make a list of all the people in your inner circle. Then find a way to connect with each of them over the holiday season. Instead of going to the movies, rent a movie and stay home with a tub of popcorn and a few friends. Invite guests over for a potluck instead of going out.

7. Adopt. Animal shelters are at maximum capacity. People who have lost their homes to foreclosure or job loss often have to abandon pets at animal shelters. Rescue a pet from a shelter this holiday season and receive joy and companionship in return. Visit Petfinder.

8. Celebrate. Each of us has so much to be grateful for. This year, more than ever, we need to focus on the good, the things that give us joy in life, and celebrate, celebrate, celebrate. Make a gratitude list, and create new celebratory rituals to enjoy this year and in the years to come.

If you have a strategy to make this holiday season better, send an e-mail to elinorobin@aol.com.