I, 21, wanted to know what I can during this recession to not be extremely affected by it. I was pretty young during the last recession and didn't live in America at that time for my dad was in the Military so Im not really sure what to expect or how to handle things going forward. Are there any Do's and Don'ts? Are we all doomed regardless? (well except the crazy rich I guess)

For those who were hit hard, what could have been done differently?

For those who weren't affected, what did you do?

For those in my shoes, what approaches are you taking?

Random side note: Kind of afraid of the stock market, I also have been. I feel like it would be great to invest in the stock market but I also feel like now is not a good time to figure that out. Am I wrong?