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I have wondered if it is my own confirmation bias or whether in fact I do see more faces that show signs of stress, anger, worry, defensiveness, and offensiveness. I think that what I am seeing is the impact of political, economic, and social destruction with consequent experiences that wear us down, bit by bit.
It may be the exposure to ongoing news cycles; radio reports; newspaper or Internet headlines; day-to-day interactions; conversations with friends and colleagues; or any of the multitude of reminders that may seep into our daily existence creating internal (and of course external) discord.
And let’s not underestimate how the tenor of the times impacts us daily. We have entered an “Alice in Wonderland” existence in which daily news makes one feel upside-down or downside-up. I have found some of the strategies that follow to create a bit of a space in my head to allow me to navigate these difficult waters and, at times, to better sort things out for myself.
- Be careful of how much media you consume. For example, even if you use media as background noise, the stories that leave one feeling hopeless and helpless are repeated over and over. Talking heads are cheaper than investigative journalism and listening to battling perspectives, while often informative, is a cheap way to keep eyes on the screen.
- Find places of sanctuary. This may be walking in nature, reading a book, visiting a museum, or working in a garden. Sanctuary is where you make it. I like my portable hammock that cocoons me and lets me step away from the daily fray.
- Do something for others. The more self-conscious we are, the unhappier we are. Giving back in some capacity often leave us feeling happier as we step out of our own spinning thoughts and reflections and improve the wellbeing of friends, neighbors, or communities. Push back against the growing self-centered, selfish narrative that we see growing right now.
- Be playful. As life feels more hectic, demanding, uncertain, and changing, the seriousness of it (which it is) takes over entirely. Get back to some of those simple passions that gave you energy in the past with which you have perhaps disconnected. I just returned to biking. I dusted off my bike in the basement, got it tuned up, and enjoy being back on the bike seat. Playing miniature golf, a board game that hasn’t been touched in a while, or going for an ice-cream run can bring back pleasure that is not expensive.
As we try to remind ourselves of the importance of pursuing a good and meaningful life, we move into a healthier self. We also end up bringing into our lives those who are similarly oriented. Having a tribe of such friends gives one a greater sense of solidity in a world in which too much is happening too fast in a direction that is not always constructive.
We cannot dismiss our humanity. Nor can we accept discouragement as a default way of being in the world. We must continue to work courageously and diligently towards the pursuit of good and meaning in life.
