5 simple ways to find calm and connection today

Or whenever life feels like a lot

How’s everyone holding up today?

Election day is behind us. Maybe it’s the results, or maybe it’s just the intensity of everything going on, but if you’re feeling uneasy, anxious, and overwhelmed by it all, you’re not alone. I was excited to share a brand-new behind-the-scenes post with you today—but given how I’m feeling, I thought it might be more helpful to share a few simple ways to find calm and connection when life has you feeling uneasy and off-balance.

1. Do something that matters.

Whenever I’m on edge, I remind myself that taking action is the best cure for overwhelm. Your influence goes far beyond the ballot box. Find something that feels meaningful to you—maybe that’s supporting a cause you care about, volunteering your time to help others, or cooking a meal for a neighbor who could use a night off. Intentional actions, no matter how small, can ground you and make a positive impact.

2. Do something for yourself.

When life feels like a lot, find a few ways to care for yourself. Stay hydrated, cook your favorite meal, get outside for a walk, write in a journal, clean or declutter something, start the book you’ve been meaning to read, put on a playlist that helps you unwind, do something creative, go to bed early—maybe even take a day off this week if you need it. (I did!)

3. Be intentional about what you let in.

The 24-hour news cycle will always be there, but staying glued to it won’t solve anything (for you or the world). Choose what you watch, read, or listen to today—and every day. Consider taking a break from social media (or deleting it altogether, like I did) and limiting your news consumption. I haven’t watched the news in nearly 4 years. Do I miss it? Not at all. Instead, I stay informed with about 15 minutes of reading each day. Being more intentional about what you consume can make a huge difference in how you feel and react to what’s happening in the world.

4. Make a meaningful connection

When life gets tough, my instinct is to retreat inward. But today, I picked up the phone and called a friend I hadn’t talked to in months—and you know what? We laughed, talked about life, and it felt really good. So today, text or call a friend, smile at someone on the street, check in on a neighbor, or ask a complete stranger how they’re doing. Those small moments of connection can have a big impact, particularly when things feel difficult.

5. Find something to look forward to

Schedule coffee with a friend, book that trip you’ve wanted to take, plan a festive dinner party, or set up a movie night to watch a film you love. Planning things you look forward to can bring you—and the people you include—a little joy, a sense of connection, and a much-needed reminder that even in tough times, there are things to look forward to.

Sending you all big hugs. Let’s take care of ourselves and each other this week.