Finding Balance and Connection Amid America’s Political Storm
While I love writing and am thrilled that it’s now part of my business, the topics I enjoy writing about are a doorway to my consciousness, which frankly makes me vulnerable. Something I’ve learned about sharing my inner thoughts, beliefs, struggles, likes, and dislikes is that no matter how extreme or uncommon they might seem, there are always others who think and feel the same way. My mind rolls the clip from Step Brothers when Will Ferrell, with unfettered exhilaration, says to John C. Reilly, “Did we just become best friends?” That soul’s recognition of oneself in another kind of moment can help the hidden and fearful parts of us suddenly feel seen and liberated.
But what happens when we don’t find those Will Ferrell–John C. Reilly moments when we need them most? What do we do when fear holds us back from reaching out to create connection during difficult times?
In today’s world, avoiding the ripple effects of political turbulence feels nearly impossible. From news headlines and social media discussions to heated conversations with loved ones, the political landscape has started to invade every aspect of our lives, intensifying stress and anxiety. For many, this strain spills over into relationships—both at work and at home.
While you can’t control the political environment, you can take intentional steps to manage its impact on your mental well-being and relationships. Here are strategies to help you cope with the stress while maintaining balance and connection during these challenging times.
Set Boundaries with Media Consumption. The 24/7 news cycle and constant social media updates can be overwhelming. While staying informed is important, overexposure to political content can exacerbate feelings of frustration, helplessness, and stress.
Limit your news intake to specific times of the day.
Choose reliable sources and avoid sensationalized content.
Unfollow or mute accounts that consistently share distressing political updates.
Setting boundaries on media consumption can help you reclaim mental space and reduce anxiety.
Focus on What You Can Control. In the face of larger political forces, it’s easy to feel powerless. Shift your focus to areas where you can make a difference.
Participate in local initiatives or volunteer for causes you care about.
Engage in meaningful conversations with others, promoting understanding and empathy.
Take actionable steps like voting, writing to representatives, or joining community groups.
When you channel your energy into constructive actions, you’ll feel more empowered and less consumed by worry.
Practice Mindfulness and Stress-Relief Techniques. These techniques can help reduce anxiety, improve mental clarity, and ground you when stress feels overwhelming.
Try mindfulness apps: Many offer guided meditations tailored to managing stress. I find those with sound bowls to be especially effective.
Exercise regularly: Physical activity is a proven way to release tension and improve mood. If working out feels like a chore, put on some music and dance—focus on the beat and the rhythm of your body.
Engage in hobbies: Creative outlets like painting, journaling, gardening, playing an instrument, or reading can provide a much-needed mental escape.
Connecting with your mind and body will help you maintain mental and emotional equilibrium.
Create a Supportive Environment. Surrounding yourself with understanding and empathetic people can create a supportive and uplifting environment.
Join groups or forums where people share your values and concerns.
Identify the people in your life: Know who you can turn to for comfort and open conversations, who you want to keep in your life but with certain topics off-limits, and who you may need to distance yourself from. When discussing opposing viewpoints with those you trust, focus on understanding rather than winning.
Consider professional support: Therapy or coaching can help you navigate stress, combat loneliness, and improve relational dynamics.
A strong, supportive environment fosters resilience and helps you feel less isolated.
Reaffirm Your Values and Purpose. When uncertainty surrounds you, grounding yourself in your core values and gaining clarity on your purpose can provide stability.
Consider the world you want to help create. Does the environment matter to you? Do you believe in lifting others up by providing access to opportunities? Would you like to see companies prioritizing ethics and sustainability due to their larger footprint? Is responsible resourcing to secure a safe and healthy future important to you? If you answered yes to any of these, you can make a difference by promoting these values in your profession and supporting companies that align with them.
Reflect on what truly matters to you and how you can live with purpose to support the things that are important to you.
Evaluate external factors—relationships, career, and actions—to determine whether they align with your values or are distancing you from them.
Focusing on your values and purpose will help you maintain perspective and navigate life with intention, giving you a greater sense of control over the world around you.
Take Breaks to Recharge. It’s okay to step back from political discussions, stress-inducing environments, and even certain relationships to prioritize self-care.
Spend time in nature to disconnect and recharge.
Start a gratitude journal and list three things you’re grateful for each morning before doing anything else. This simple practice can help you begin the day on a positive note.
Spend time with loved ones (including pets) and fully embrace the love and joy they bring to your life.
Taking these breaks can rejuvenate your mind and better equip you to handle challenges.
Final Thoughts
The tools provided can be helpful, but there is no quick fix for what is happening in American politics today. We have been swept backward in many ways—not in service of the people, but in favor of a particular agenda.
Efforts to maintain inner peace while continuing to stand for the rights and beliefs we hold for ourselves and for others will likely become increasingly difficult. However, by setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and fostering open communication with trusted people, balance and connection remain possible. Managing stress does not mean ignoring the world’s challenges—it means building the resilience to face them with strength and compassion. Taking these steps will not only help you navigate the current political climate more effectively but also nurture healthier, more supportive relationships with yourself and others.
I will continue writing about various topics unrelated to politics, but the concerns I see today will move forward with me—they will not be forgotten. I have never openly displayed my political or religious beliefs because I respect others’ right to their own, and I am not so self-indulged to think everyone should share mine. However, when opinions, beliefs, or religion negatively impact the world we live in and the people we share it with, that changes things. If this helps even one person, then sharing it was worth it—I write for them. If you feel the need to attack me over something written out of care and concern for others, then I say with love: This was not written for you, and perhaps the most pressing place to focus your energy is within.
—Shannon Stein
