Hello Friend,

A week has passed since the election, yet the grief might still feel fresh. For many, it’s hard to comprehend—is this really the path forward? Maybe you’re caught between wanting to make sense of what happened and feeling pulled under by other life stressors that press in daily. It may feel like everything is happening at once, with no clear direction in sight. If that resonates, know that you are not alone, and what you feel is valid. So many are struggling with this uncertainty, feeling as if we’ve been cast into a vast sea, hoping to navigate by the stars, only to find fog, wind, and rain. Sometimes, the weight of it all makes it hard to even take a step forward.

Being Present & Foundational Values

In these moments, let’s start with the simple act of grounding ourselves in the present. This isn’t about fixing everything or having it all figured out—sometimes, just finding our footing can be enough. Let’s focus on where you are right now. When I work with clients, we often begin each session with grounding or centering practices. I invite you to try this, even now: become aware of your breath, your body, and your thoughts. You might find a guided grounding practice on YouTube, or simply allow yourself a few moments of stillness to just be.

Once you feel more settled, ask yourself, what are the core values that guide you? These values are the truths that give life meaning, even when the world feels uncertain. What are the things that truly matter to you? Where do you want your time and energy to go? It’s okay if everything feels out of balance right now. Just take a deep breath, give yourself permission to pause, and rest in what is steady and certain within you. This inner stability can become your compass as you navigate forward, one small step at a time.

Thinking Small

Think of this time as an invitation to assess what serves you and what doesn’t. Are there small habits or commitments that might be weighing you down? Are there practices or activities that help ground you, even if they’re small? It may not be time to paint a big, bright vision of the future just yet. Right now, simply getting through each day might be the work, and that’s perfectly okay. Remember, you don’t have to take giant leaps forward—small, intentional steps are enough.

Consider looking at yourself as a whole person. Where are you physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually? Take stock of what you’re already doing well, even if it feels insignificant. For example, despite everything, maybe you’ve been consistent with your journal, exercise, or taken a few moments to breathe in quiet stillness each morning. I know that for me, even in times of overwhelm, my morning walks provide a small, steady routine that grounds me. I’ve also chosen to cut back on social media and news—a long-time goal that I’ve seen success and failures at multiple times— but now see its importance more than ever because it frees up mental space for reflection and calm.

Think about what is manageable for you right now. This isn’t about taking on grand projects or massive shifts but recognizing the small, nurturing acts that can sustain you. It could be dedicating five minutes a day to meditation, preparing yourself a nourishing meal, or simply letting yourself rest. These small acts of self-care matter deeply. They are anchors in a storm, reminders that even when life feels out of control, there are ways to find steady ground.

Remember to be gentle with yourself. Progress doesn’t need to be monumental to be meaningful. Small steps are still steps, and if you find yourself struggling, that’s okay. This time isn’t about reaching some ideal or doing everything “right.” It’s about moving through the days with a sense of curiosity, willing to learn, to feel, and to adjust without judgment. Life isn’t a straight line or a clear path; it’s more like navigating rough seas. And it’s okay if, for now, you’re just drifting, holding onto your values as a compass.

Moving Forward With Your Bravery & Strength

Even when the world feels out of balance, there is resilience within you. Each small, intentional choice you make—even just taking a deep breath—brings you closer to solid ground. You don’t have to see the whole way forward to keep going. Trust that you have the strength to navigate these times, one day, one choice at a time. Be kind to yourself, give yourself grace, and know that even in the fog, you are still moving forward. You are braver and stronger than you know. And when the seas eventually calm, you’ll be there—surefooted, resilient, ready to move forward with a clarity you never expected.