I think we are all hoping for signs the economy is improving and that the worst is behind us. My gut tells me things are better than 3 months ago, and if I look at my investment portfolio, it has given me some room for optimism. Other indicators? I found several sources that measure confidence in other ways one being Fortune Magazines Big Picture Index. This index has been on a fairly consistent downward path since early 2007, but seems to be making a recovery. Another measure is the Grant Thornton Business Optimism Index which measures the expectations of U.S. business leaders, and reflects a significant upward turnaround since Feb. 2009. Will we really see recovery by 2010 as many are predicting?