Focus on What You Can Control: Things to Do Instead of Worrying About Our Post-Election Fate
The White House got a lot of us in a tizzy right now, and news of who’s been appointed for what position and what it will mean for our children, schools, neighborhoods, businesses, and wellbeing can be overwhelming. But worrying ain’t in our best interest. To worry is to worship the problem.
It’s important to remember that we can only control so much. In times like these, it’s essential to find ways to center yourself, reclaim your peace, and focus on the things that are within your control. Instead of letting anxiety and fear take the wheel, here are some practical things you can do to refocus your energy and take care of your mental, emotional, and financial well-being:
Cut Back on Frivolous Spending
Getting new stuff is exciting, even if that excitement only lasts for a few minutes or hours. And, unlike our elders and ancestors, we are surrounded by ads pretty much all the time. You can mention a product, even just think about it, and soon enough, you’ll see it advertised to you online. But if you’re worried about being able to afford necessities in the future, unnecessary spending right now will only add more to the pile of worries you’re already facing.
Evaluate what you truly need versus what’s just an impulse purchase. Reconnect with the things that bring you joy without the need for material things — a walk in nature, card/board games with family or friends, a good book, or a deep conversation with a loved one. Cutting back on unnecessary purchases keeps money in ya pocket and also bring a sense of clarity and focus.
Mind What You Consuming
Your mind and your body. If social media fulla reasons for you to worry, get off. If the news only bringing bad news, turn it off. You don’t need that right now. I’m not saying ignore what’s going on, but awareness of how it’s affecting is more important. Take care of yourself first and foremost. This also means considering what you’re eating/craving and why. When we’re stressed, we often crave salty/crunchy foods, comfort foods, and sweet treats. Nothing wrong with ’em, just be mindful and moderate. I love fun-sized chocolate candy, for instance, but it makes me crash and makes me crave it even more. So I’ve been doing green apples and honey, or these balls I make with raw oats, coconut flakes, peanut butter, honey, and dark chocolate chips.
Work Them Muscles
When I’m working out and it’s getting hard, I tell myself that if I ever need to fight or run or start doing physically challenging work, I wanna be ready. The CDC said, “Adults need at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity a week, such as 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week. Adults also need 2 days of muscle-strengthening activity each week.” GirlTREK suggests walking for 30 minutes a day for at least 5 days a week. That’s a very accessible way to get it in, because it’s free and all you gotta do is go outside. For muscle-strengthening, you can use weights but your body weight is just fine.
Find Ways to Slow Down
When you get in the car, don’t just pull off. Sit there a minute or two. Drive the speed limit. Don’t grab ya phone soon as you wake up. Stretch. Brush your teeth and wipe ya face. Make ya bed. Eat without your phone.
Nurture Your Relationships
The most important thing we have is each other. Shut the whole world out for a while, if you need to, but come back. Isolating yourself for too long ain’t good for you. Nurture the relationships that make you feel good. Call up a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while. Have a heartfelt conversation with a family member. Take a walk with a neighbor. These moments of connection boost your emotional well-being and strengthen your support system — something we all need as we navigate uncertain times.
Actually “Be in Community”
A community, in my opinion, requires at least three people. We’re naturally part of different communities—where you live, your career, culture, etc. To “be in community” requires intentionality. What communities do you choose to be a part of and want to see flourish? Krak Teet is a community of storytellers across the African Diaspora, getting people to share stories. I also have a group of women I’ve been meeting with about once a month for restorative yoga and journaling. Another is the Sankofa House Savannah here in Savannah. My group chat of four friends is another example.
When you’re “in community,” you’re giving and getting. That’s the most important part. You’re active. You’re actually doing something to make the community better. It’s a reciprocal relationship. Just remember to only give what you can afford to. That goes for your money and your time. And allow yourself to receive as well. That’s equally important.