A new study released by Bankrate, Inc. reveals that only 1 in 4 Americans are very worried about investing in the stock market. Furthermore, the majority of Americans (59 percent) believe the economy will improve or stay consistent over the next year, showing a surprisingly hopeful attitude toward the country's economic future.

The poll, conducted by GfK Roper, is part of Bankrate's Financial Literacy 2008 series, Guide to Building Personal Wealth.

Optimism aside, there is no denying the economy is currently in a state of flux. When questioned about the factors that Americans feel hinder them from getting ahead financially, nearly one-third of respondents blamed the rising prices of goods and services (32%). Another quarter attribute the blame to inadequate income (23%). Surprisingly, consumers took on little personal responsibility for not getting ahead. Problems with overspending and an inability to get credit both ranked low at just 4 percent each.

"Consumers need to be smarter than ever when it comes to managing their finances," said Greg McBride, senior financial analyst at Bankrate.com. "Having the fortitude to continue with long-term investments, such as a 401(k), and cutting unnecessary expenses are crucial to growing your financial bottom line in turbulent times."

What should consumers do to protect themselves in uncertain economic times? Bankrate offers tips and advice on how consumers can increase savings and cut expenses in the company's latest installment of Financial Literacy, "Growing Your Bottom Line".

Key articles in Bankrate's Financial Literacy guide on "Growing Your Bottom Line" include:

- "4 steps to a simpler lifestyle"
- "What to do if your house is upside down"
- "Saving boot camp"
- "Smart ways to trim big-ticket expenses"