Can we be honest for a second? Things feel heavy right now.
The political climate in the U.S. is exhausting at best and heartbreaking at worst and it seems like every day brings another headline that leaves us feeling angry, powerless, or completely overwhelmed. For many of us, it’s not just the news it is also the fear of what it all means for our rights, our communities, and our futures.
If you’re finding it hard to focus on your day-to-day life when so much feels wrong in the world, I can promise you that you’re not alone. It’s hard to cook dinner or answer emails when your heart is breaking. It can feel selfish to laugh with your kids or take a vacation to the beach when others are hurting.
HOWEVER caring deeply and living fully are not opposites.
Here are five things you can do when the world feels scary, and none of them require you to have it all figured out.
1. Feel Your Feelings Without Judgment
Grief, rage, confusion, or numbness- whatever is showing up for you right now is completely valid. You don’t have to “be strong” or “stay positive” all the time. Let yourself cry. Journal. Sit with a friend in silence. The ability to feel deeply is not a weakness and it’s evidence that your empathy is intact. That’s something the world needs more of right now. Your feelings are not a distraction from the work. They are the work.
2. Take One Small Action
When everything feels urgent and overwhelming, it can be tempting to do nothing. But remember, even small acts have meaning.
- Call your representatives
- Donate $5 to an organization doing on-the-ground work
- Share one trusted resource on social media
- Sign a petition
- Show up at a local event or meeting
You don’t have to do everything. You just have to do something. Small, consistent actions—especially when done in a community can create waves.
3. Protect Your Peace (Without Ignoring Reality)
Staying informed is important, but so is rest. Doomscrolling doesn’t equal activism. It’s okay to set boundaries with news, conversations, or social media. Give yourself permission to log off, watch something light, go outside, read a novel, or play with your dog. You’re not abandoning the cause and instead, you’re replenishing your capacity to keep going.
4. Stay Connected to People Who Care
Isolation makes everything feel heavier. Whether it’s texting a friend, going to therapy, joining a mutual aid group, or simply checking in with someone who “gets it”, having a community heals.
The world can feel less terrifying when we remember we’re not alone in how we feel or in what we’re fighting for. Collective grief and collective hope are both powerful forces.
5. Recommit to Your Values in Daily Life
We don’t always control what’s happening at the highest levels of power, but we do shape the culture we’re part of every day.
Choose kindness. Speak up when it’s uncomfortable. Support marginalized voices. Teach your children compassion. Rest when you’re tired. Model what it looks like to care for yourself and your community.
We Are Not Powerless!
If the world feels scary to you right now, it’s probably because your heart is still open, and that’s a good thing. Let that be your guide. You don’t have to carry it all, fix it all, or figure it all out today. You just have to keep showing up in whatever way you can, however you are. We need you here to continue the fight!
