I’ve been through a lot of natural disasters and economic highs and lows.  I’ve studied economics, history and geopolitics closely for many years, and I think now is the time to get energized and get ready for anything.

Have a can-do attitude.  Think of it more as an adventure.  Boost your efforts to make money now, and prepare now while things are semi-stable.

Increase your marketing to get more business.  Develop your product line.  Coordinate your efforts with people you know.  Have supplies and things ready.  Learn as much as you can.  Don’t get worried or stressed.  Be energized and enjoy the adventure.

Build your business or career, make more money and use it to buy gear, supplies and knowledge.  Knowledge is the most important.

You can’t eat money or purify water with it, but you can buy things that can, and learn to do things from scratch.  Money in the bank will lose value if inflation goes up.  So do things with it and invest it into useful stuff.

Do your own research and fact checking.  Do your own thinking.  What is really true?  What actually matters or doesn’t?  Its not so much about left or right, its about truth and non truth.

There are news agencies that seem to be at war with each other, who are owned by the same people.

The media is saturated with propaganda of all sorts.  Research from primary sources of information.  You might be shocked at how wrong the news gets things and what they leave out.  Its been happening forever and has gotten worse.  This includes the professional “fact checkers” that get it backwards so often.

Being proactive rather than reactive can make all the difference, ensuring your business not only survives but thrives in challenging times.

Here are some of the things to look for during these “interesting” times.

1. Rampant Inflation: A Pressing Threat

Inflation is mostly caused by printing too much money.  Usually to give it to other countries.  Inflation is one of the most significant threats facing the economy today.

It has surged due to excessive money printing, which began during COVID. To support the economy, the government infused massive amounts of cash into the system, leading to increased demand for goods and services without a corresponding increase in supply.

This trend has worsened with continued money printing to fund aid for Ukraine and several Middle Eastern countries. By effectively financing multiple conflicts, we are inadvertently driving up inflation. When governments print money to fund various counties, conflicts and initiatives, it dilutes the value of existing currency, pushing prices higher and eroding purchasing power.

2. BRICS Nations Challenging the Dollar

The BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) are actively working to replace the U.S. dollar as the world’s primary reserve currency.  If it happens, this would cause significant economic upheaval – massive inflation.

Should the dollar lose its status as the dominant currency for international trade, all that printed money could flood back into the U.S. economy.  As if the government  had printed all of that money.

This influx would dramatically increase the money supply, likely resulting in massive inflation—potentially worse than what we’re experiencing now. A weakened dollar would erode purchasing power and destabilize the economy, leading to higher prices across the board.

3. Rising Interest Rates Slow Growth

In response to skyrocketing inflation, the Federal Reserve is aggressively raising interest rates, making borrowing more expensive for businesses and consumers. This leads to decreased spending, reduced business expansion, and the potential for layoffs. If rates keep climbing, we could see significant economic consequences.

4. Global Supply Chain Disruptions

With our jobs and manufacturing shipped overseas, China now makes most of our stuff, which is a big vulnerability.  Its the same country trying to devalue our money.

Supply chain issues have persisted since Covid, affecting various industries and driving up costs. Ongoing disruptions, alongside geopolitical tensions, can exacerbate inflation and slow recovery efforts.

5. Labor Market Instability

While unemployment rates appear low, many companies are cutting jobs or issuing hiring freezes. Coupled with stagnant wages, this instability could reduce consumer spending and hinder economic growth.

6. Recession Fears Loom

Economists warn of a possible recession due to rising interest rates, inflation, and decreasing consumer confidence. If a recession hits, widespread layoffs and reduced spending could ensue.

7. Rising Geopolitical Tensions

Conflicts like the Russia-Ukraine war and U.S.-China tensions can disrupt trade and increase energy prices, destabilizing global markets, and trigger completely unnecessary large scale war.

8. Housing Market Instability

Rising interest rates are driving up mortgage costs, cooling demand for home sales and construction. A sluggish housing market can create ripple effects, impacting related industries and leading to job cuts.

Final Thoughts: Prepare for Economic Uncertainty

The economy is at a tipping point. Rampant inflation driven by excessive money printing, the potential decline of the dollar’s dominance, rising interest rates, labor market instability, geopolitical tensions, and the risks of recession are significant concerns.

To navigate these challenges, stay informed and prepare. Build a financial cushion, reduce debt, and position yourself for resilience. Now is the time to be smart, save, and stay proactive.

Is the Great Florida Migration coming undone?

Housing prices might become affordable again.

Over the past few years, Florida has been a magnet for Americans seeking sunny weather, lower taxes, and a laid-back lifestyle.  The Great Florida Migration saw droves of people relocating to the Sunshine State, especially during the pandemic when remote work allowed more flexibility.

Florida during Covid, was less restrictive than others and had a lower Covid rates.  This was in part because Governor Desantis, opened free clinics giving Monoclonal Antibody Infusions.  No fees, no appointments, just show up.   About four hours after treatment most Covid symptoms were gone.  This was largely hidden in the press, but the results were clear.

As with any politician you can find areas to detract, but this was not one of them.

In recent years, Florida has averaged around 1,000 new people per day moving in.  But recently, this once-thriving migration may be starting to unravel. Rising costs, weather risks, and other factors have some residents questioning whether if the Great Florida Migration coming undone, or if Florida is still the paradise they once believed it to be.

So, what’s behind the shift, and could it mean the end of Florida’s population boom? Let’s break it down.

Why So Many People Moved to Florida

Before we dig into why some may be leaving Florida, it’s important to understand why they flocked here in the first place. Florida has long been known as a haven for retirees and snowbirds, but during the pandemic, its appeal widened to include families, young professionals, and remote workers. Here are a few of the key reasons people packed their bags and headed south:

• No state income tax: Florida’s tax-friendly environment was especially appealing to people from high-tax states like California, New York, and Illinois. Not paying state income tax meant that even a modest salary could stretch much further.
• Warm weather and outdoor lifestyle: Florida’s warm, tropical climate, beautiful beaches, and abundance of outdoor activities made it a dream destination for those seeking a change of pace from colder or busier states.
• Affordable real estate (at the time): Florida was once known for its relatively affordable housing market. People who couldn’t afford a home in cities like Los Angeles, New York, or San Francisco found that their money went much further in places like Tampa, Orlando, and Fort Lauderdale.
• Remote work freedom: During COVID, the explosion of remote work allowed many people to move wherever they pleased. Florida, with its sunny weather and low taxes, seemed like the perfect place to set up a home office.

The Shift: Why Some Are Leaving Florida

While Florida’s charm remains undeniable, some of the very things that drew people in are now pushing them out. Several key factors are leading some residents to rethink their decision to live in the Sunshine State.

Housing developments are cropping up in Florida, at higher prices than existing homes.

1. Skyrocketing Housing Costs

One of the biggest selling points for moving to Florida was its affordable real estate, but that has quickly changed. In major cities like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa, home prices have surged by more than 30% since the pandemic began.

What was once an affordable option for people escaping high-cost areas has become increasingly expensive. Renters aren’t immune either, with rental prices in popular areas hitting record highs, making it difficult for new arrivals or current residents to find affordable housing.

2. Hurricane Risks and Rising Insurance Costs

Florida’s hurricane season is an ever-present concern, but in recent years, it has felt like the storms are becoming more frequent and more severe. On top of that, the state’s flood risks have worsened, driving up home insurance premiums.

Some have attributed part of the home insurance crisis to recent laws or policies about insurance, but it remains debated.  Some homeowners have even seen their insurance rates double, while others struggle to find coverage as insurers leave the state entirely. Between the rising cost of living and the unpredictable weather, some Floridians are packing up and moving out.

3. Strained Infrastructure and Overcrowding

With millions of people moving to Florida in such a short span, the state’s infrastructure has been stretched thin. Roads are clogged with traffic, schools are overcrowded, and environmental resources are under pressure.

In cities like Miami and Tampa, traffic congestion is becoming a major issue, and public transportation options are limited. These growing pains are making everyday life more challenging for many residents, and some are starting to look elsewhere for a more balanced lifestyle.

4. Changing Job Market

While remote work made it easy for many to relocate to Florida during the pandemic, the job market is changing again. Many companies are requiring employees to return to the office, often in states where tech and finance jobs are more concentrated.

Additionally, Florida’s economy is heavily dependent on tourism, hospitality, and construction, industries that may not offer the same high-paying opportunities as tech hubs like California or New York. As remote work opportunities dwindle, some are finding that Florida doesn’t provide the career growth they need.

Florida’s driver’s license crisis

5.  Florida’s Legal System & The Poverty Penalty

Problems like Florida’s driver’s license suspension crisis, leaving 1/3 of all Floridians with a suspended drivers licenses, at any given time, and most without without knowing it.  85% of the time for things not related to bad driving.  This has created a long list of problems in the state.

Florida’s heavy reliance on fines and fees, exploitive probation practices, private prisons that lobby for stricter laws, and the overall “poverty penalty”—is likely contributing to some residents choosing to leave the state.

These legal traps can affect anyone, especially as the economy worsens.  The traps disproportionately affect low-income individuals and can make life in Florida financially and emotionally exhausting.

They also drain more money from tax payers in a time that few can afford it.  These are problems that definitely need to be fixed.

While legal problems may not be the sole reason people leave, they are certainly a significant factor for many, especially when combined with the rising cost of living, high insurance premiums, and other challenges.

Where Are People Moving Now?

If people are leaving Florida, where are they going? Many are returning to their home states, while others are exploring new areas that offer similar benefits to Florida but with fewer downsides.

States like Texas, Arizona, and North Carolina are becoming attractive alternatives, offering warm climates, lower taxes, and growing job markets. The Carolinas, in particular, have become popular due to their balance of affordable living, temperate weather, and proximity to both beaches and mountains.

Of course, since the recent damage from Hurricane Helene, and geographic vulnerability that it revealed like probably deter people from parts of the Carolinas.

Tennessee Became The New Florida

As Northerners sold their homes and flocked to the relative freedom and lower costs of Florida, the rent and mortgage costs in Florida went up drastically.  That, with the other issues mentioned here, some Floridians started moving to Tennessee for affordability.

This quickly drove up the prices in Tennessee, and ironically made Floridians the “Northerners” to people in Tennessee.  Florida’s migration to Tennessee seems to have slowed as as Californians have also moved to Tennessee, buying up properties, and further driving up costs.

Is the Great Florida Migration Really Over?

While some early movers are indeed packing their bags, it’s not all doom and gloom. Retirees, snowbirds, and families looking for a more affordable lifestyle still see Florida as an appealing destination. The state’s population is still growing, albeit at a slower rate, and the allure of no state income tax, beautiful beaches, and sunshine remains strong. However, for those looking for more career growth, affordable housing, or a stable political climate, Florida may no longer be the dream it once was.

The Takeaway: Proceed with Caution

For anyone considering moving to Florida, it’s crucial to weigh both the pros and cons. While Florida still offers many benefits—like no state income tax, beautiful weather, and an outdoor-centric lifestyle—potential newcomers should be aware of the rising costs, insurance headaches, legal traps, and the driver’s license suspension crisis. Understanding these challenges can help you make an informed decision about whether Florida is still the right move for you.

The Great Florida Migration may not be entirely over, but it’s certainly shifting. Whether Florida continues to attract new residents or starts to see a more significant exodus will depend largely on how it addresses the growing pains and challenges of rapid population growth.

If you happen to need some friendly, certified help with a Website, SEO, Digital Marketing or Remote Tech Support or writing, give us a call or use the contact form.

My Secret to saving water or flood damaged electronics

With all the flood damage from Hurricane Helene, and Milton on the way to Florida I wondered how I can help.  I realized I know something that could help them.  I developed a method to recover water or flood damaged electronics which could helped these people a lot.

I don’t have a helicopter (yet).  I have a computer repair and web design business, and its been the slowest slow-season I’ve had, on top of it slowing down after Covid.  So I don’t have money to send, so this is my way of helping.

What’s the super secret method? Distilled water.

Wash with 2 of these and let dry for 72 hours

For the most part, its not the water itself that damages electronics, its the minerals in the water.  Whether its muddy water, salt water, river water. The minerals are what make water conductive and leave a residue on the electronics.  They are what shorts out the circuit board if its are powered on with this residue.

Short circuits are where electricity goes to other circuits that can’t handle the power and something burns out.  Distilled water has most of the minerals removed, so washing electronics with it  can clean off the residue.

It doesn’t work all the time, but most of the time is better than losing your electronics and data.

If you don’t have access to distilled water, there are several improved methods for making some.

Steps for recovering electronics from water or flood damage

1. As soon as it’s safe to do so, remove your electronics from the floodwater. Holding the device upright, allow excess water to drain out. Don’t connect it to power or turn it on if its been submerged.  Clean it first.
2. Take it apart.
3. Soak the part briefly in distilled water, and rinse them off thoroughly.  I use 1-2 gallons per laptop.
4. Use a soft brush to carefully clean delicate parts where necessary, ensuring that you’re not pushing water deeper into the device.
5.  Allow them to fully dry for 72 hours if possible, avoid using direct heat if you can
6. Try to power them on briefly.  It they don’t turn on right way, immediately turn them off, and repeat the process

If that doesn’t work, its still possible to find the exact part on the electronics that are damaged, and replace them.  This can take more skill.  You can find an electronics hobbyist or professional to help.

Conclusion

You don’t have to throw away those electronics and lose your pictures, data, work and whatever else is stored on them.  Its important to be able to get them working so you can contact the outside world, and let friends and family to let them know you’re ok or need more help.  I recommend moving away from flood prone areas, because worse is coming.

Feel free to comment and share with people who need to know it.

Why Choose Our Web Design Company in DeLand, FL?

When it comes to building your online presence, choosing the right Web Design company, or Web Design Agency in DeLand, FL, can make or break your success.

Web Design and SEO are very important today.  I’ve had several clients who after rebuilding their website, or re-SEO’ing the site, their business doubled in a week.  Then doubled again the week after.

Whether you’re a local business looking to establish your brand or an established company needing a fresh look, our web design agency is your go-to partner for creating websites that not only look stunning but also drive results. Here’s why partnering with us is a smart decision for your business.

We Understand the DeLand FL Market

I’ve done a lot of statistical research on this area.  You can find a lot of surprising things this way.  This includes DeLand, Orange City, Lake Helen, Deleon Springs, New Smyrna Beach, Daytona Beach, etc.

Additionally, our web design company is deeply rooted in DeLand, FL.  We understand the local market and what resonates with your target audience.

This local insight allows us to craft websites that appeal to your customers, making your business stand out among competitors. From showcasing your services to integrating local SEO strategies, we design with your success in mind.

A Full-Service Web Design Agency

We’re not just about good looks—our web design agency offers a full suite of services to ensure your website is a powerful marketing tool. From initial design and development to SEO and digital marketing, we handle everything under one roof. This integrated approach means you get a cohesive strategy that supports your business goals and helps you grow.

Customized Solutions for Every Business

No two businesses are the same, and neither should their websites be. Our web design company in DeLand, FL, takes the time to understand your unique needs and tailors each project accordingly. Whether you need an e-commerce platform, a blog, or a complex site with multiple functionalities, we’ve got you covered. We build websites that reflect your brand’s personality and meet your specific requirements.

Expertise in Digital Marketing

Having a great website is just the start. Our web design agency also specializes in digital marketing strategies that drive traffic and increase conversions. We combine web design with services like SEO, social media management, and PPC advertising to ensure your website gets the visibility it deserves. This comprehensive approach positions your business to succeed online.

Focused on Results

Our goal is to help you achieve measurable results. We’re not just focused on delivering a beautiful website; we want to ensure it serves as an effective tool for your business. Our web design company in DeLand, FL, utilizes analytics and data-driven strategies to monitor performance and make continual improvements. This commitment to results is what sets us apart from other agencies.

Why You Shouldn’t Cut Corners

In today’s competitive digital landscape, skimping on web design and marketing can be a costly mistake. Especially in challenging economic times, investing in a high-quality website and strategic digital marketing is crucial. Cutting corners here can lead to missed opportunities and lost revenue. Our web design agency understands the importance of staying visible and relevant, and we work tirelessly to keep your business on the map.

Get Started Today

Ready to elevate your online presence? Our web design company in DeLand, FL, is here to help. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to revamp your existing site, we’ll work with you to create a website that not only looks great but also drives business growth. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you succeed online.

Choosing the right web design agency is a critical decision that can have long-lasting effects on your business. With our expertise, dedication, and a deep understanding of the DeLand market, we’re confident we’re the right choice for your web design and digital marketing needs. Let’s build something amazing together!

Why Web Design & WordPress is More Important Than Ever in 2024

In today’s digital world, having a well-designed website is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity for any business looking to succeed. With billions of people online, your website often serves as your main business hub, and without it, you’re missing out on countless opportunities to reach customers and grow. A strong, effective website is critical to your business success, and there’s no better platform for this than WordPress. Here’s why.

1. Your Website is Your Business’s Core

A well-designed website is crucial because it’s where most of your customers will come to learn about your business. Whether you’re selling products, offering services, or sharing information, a website serves as a 24/7 storefront. It is the go-to place where potential customers check your credibility, read reviews, and decide whether to engage with your business.

In 2024, consumers expect businesses to have a professional online presence. Without one, you lose credibility and the trust of customers. In fact, 70-80% of people research a business online before making a purchase. If your website isn’t delivering the right message or isn’t optimized for user experience, it could significantly impact your bottom line.

2. WordPress: The Best Platform for SEO and Business Growth

When it comes to getting your business noticed online, WordPress is unmatched in its ability to optimize for search engines. WordPress is built with SEO in mind, making it the best platform for helping your business show up on Google and other search engines. Over 40% of websites on the internet use WordPress, and part of the reason for this popularity is the platform’s search engine visibility.

Other platforms, such as Wix, Squarespace, or Weebly, often fall short when it comes to SEO because they lack the flexibility and robust features needed to fully optimize a site. WordPress, on the other hand, allows you to customize your website to meet SEO standards with easy access to plugins like Yoast SEO, which helps you fine-tune everything from meta tags to keyword density.

Search engines like Google prioritize sites that are fast, secure, and well-structured. WordPress makes it easier to achieve these standards with clean code, mobile-friendly themes, and easy integrations. By using WordPress, your business can be sure it is in the best position to rank higher in search results, which means more traffic and more potential customers.

3. SEO-Friendly Features That Other Platforms Lack

One of the key reasons why WordPress outshines other platforms is its suite of SEO-friendly features. WordPress allows for custom URL structures, easy content management, and the ability to use plugins to monitor and enhance on-page SEO. Unlike platforms that are closed or limited, WordPress gives you complete control over how your site is structured, from simple things like title tags to more complex aspects like XML sitemaps and schema markup.

On non-WordPress platforms, you’re often stuck with what they offer, which can leave your website behind in the SEO game. These platforms can be harder to customize, limiting your ability to stand out in search results. For businesses that rely on organic traffic for growth, this is a serious disadvantage.

4. Integrating WordPress with Digital Marketing Tools

Beyond SEO, WordPress offers seamless integration with a wide variety of digital marketing tools that can help your business grow. Tools for email marketing, social media, and analytics are easy to integrate, ensuring that your website works as part of a larger marketing strategy. Whether you’re tracking user behavior with Google Analytics or setting up a newsletter with Mailchimp, WordPress makes it simple to connect and optimize your marketing efforts.

These integrations ensure your site not only drives traffic but also converts visitors into customers by offering targeted, measurable strategies. Without these tools, other platforms often limit the full potential of your website.

5. WordPress Powers Business Scalability

As your business grows, so will your website needs. WordPress is built for scalability, which means you can start with a basic website and easily expand its features over time. Whether it’s adding e-commerce capabilities, membership portals, or interactive elements, WordPress allows your site to grow with your business.

Many other platforms don’t offer the same level of flexibility. They may require you to completely redesign your site or switch platforms as your needs expand. This is time-consuming and costly. With WordPress, you can add or modify features without starting from scratch, giving your business room to grow and adapt without technical roadblocks.
Conclusion

In 2024, a strong website isn’t just an option—it’s essential for business success. Your website is the heart of your digital presence, and with the right platform, it can be the key to reaching new customers and growing your business. WordPress stands out as the best choice for businesses that want to rank high in search engines and take full advantage of digital marketing. Its SEO-friendly structure, flexibility, and ability to scale make it the top platform for driving traffic and growing your online presence.

For businesses looking to thrive in today’s competitive digital landscape, there’s no better foundation than a well-designed, WordPress-powered website.

Why SEO is More Important Than Ever in 2024 – And Takes More Work Than Ever

Search engine optimization (SEO) has been around for years, evolving alongside search algorithms, user behavior, and technology.  But as we step into 2024, it’s clear that SEO isn’t just surviving – it’s thriving, and more important than ever.  Many people seek out and SEO company now.  Its also more important now than ever and takes far more work than it did before.  Why?

1. Algorithm Shifts: From Content to Links and Authority

In recent years, Google’s algorithm has been shifting its focus. It’s no longer just about creating good content (though that’s still crucial). Links and site authority are becoming more significant ranking factors. Google is putting more weight on how many other authoritative websites link to your content, how trusted your site is, and the overall authority of your domain.

This means ranking well on Google in 2024 takes more work than ever. It’s not enough to simply produce content – you need a strategy to build high-quality backlinks and boost your domain’s authority through consistent credibility. Acquiring trusted links from respected websites takes time and effort, and ranking on the first page often means managing complex, ongoing link-building campaigns. More work, but the rewards of being a trusted authority in your space can pay off big-time.

2.  The Rise of Voice Search

Remember when talking to machines felt like sci-fi? Now, asking Alexa or Siri for directions, recipes, or the best Thai place nearby is part of our daily routine. Voice search is changing the way people find information. It’s less about typing keywords and more about asking full, conversational questions. This shift means websites need to optimize for natural language and long-tail keywords – the ones that closely mimic how people speak. If your website isn’t ready for voice search, you’re missing out on a growing chunk of traffic.

3. Mobile-First World

We’re glued to our phones, plain and simple. In fact, Google’s algorithm now ranks sites based on their mobile performance first, thanks to mobile-first indexing. A site that’s not mobile-friendly, fast, and easy to navigate on a smartphone will lose out in rankings, no matter how great the content is. If your SEO strategy doesn’t include mobile optimization, you’re playing catch-up in 2024.

4. User Experience (UX) and SEO Go Hand in Hand

Today, SEO is more than just about keywords and backlinks. Google is prioritizing user experience (UX) more than ever. Factors like page speed, site structure, and core web vitals are now directly tied to your rankings. If your website takes forever to load, or your design is confusing, Google will rank you lower. SEO in 2024 is a blend of technical prowess and making your site easy and enjoyable for users.

5. The Growing Importance of Local SEO

“Near me” searches continue to skyrocket as people use their phones to find businesses on the go. Whether it’s looking for the nearest coffee shop or the top-rated plumber, local SEO ensures you’re found by potential customers in your area. With more people relying on mobile and voice search to find local businesses, optimizing for local searches has become non-negotiable.

6. AI and Search Intent

Google is getting smarter – thanks to AI. Tools like Google’s BERT and MUM (Multitask Unified Model) help the search engine understand the intent behind a user’s query, not just the keywords they type. This means content that’s optimized solely for exact-match keywords isn’t enough. In 2024, you need to understand what your audience is looking for, why they’re searching for it, and how you can provide the best solution.

7. Evolving Search Engine Results Pages (SERPs)

It’s not just about being on page one anymore – it’s about owning the SERP real estate. Featured snippets, knowledge panels, local packs, and video results take up more space on search results pages. SEO now involves optimizing for all these different SERP features, ensuring your brand appears in as many of these as possible. In 2024, simply ranking isn’t enough; dominating these spots is key.

8. It’s Cost-Effective

Let’s face it, paid ads are great – but they can also be expensive and short-term. SEO, on the other hand, is a long-term strategy that can deliver consistent traffic and ROI over time. It’s an investment in your brand’s future. As businesses are getting smarter with their digital marketing budgets, SEO stands out as a sustainable way to grow without burning through your advertising dollars.

9. Trust and Credibility

People trust Google. When your site ranks high, it signals to users that your brand is trustworthy and credible. SEO helps build this authority through things like link building, content creation, and optimizing for user intent. The higher your site ranks, the more likely people are to trust your brand – which can directly translate into more business.

Conclusion: SEO Isn’t Going Anywhere

SEO has never been a set-it-and-forget-it strategy. It evolves with technology, user behavior, and search algorithms. In 2024, SEO is more than just a marketing tactic – it’s a fundamental pillar of your online presence. With the rise of voice search, mobile use, AI, and the emphasis on links and authority, now is the time to double down on your SEO efforts. Your competitors already are.

…If you use Chrome, then you know that sometimes It can run slow and get quirky.  Its usually caused by Viruses and Malware that clog it up.  File corruptions can do it too.

This happens with almost any browser, not just Chrome.   Fortunately, Google makes the Chrome Clean Up Tool.

You download it, run it, and see if things improve.  Let us know how it does.