In the chaos of daily life, it can be challenging to feel positive enough to create a future that feels empowered. The constant bombardment of information can leave us feeling powerless and disconnected from our sense of joy and purpose. To meet this hurdle, one of the strategies I’ve adopted is to keep a journal of how I’ve had a positive effect on—or taken positive action on behalf of—another person, or how such action has been taken on behalf of me.
I’ve never been a successful journal writer, but at this time I believe that keeping a journal of positive, empowered actions is more than a simple habit—it’s a spiritual practice that shifts my focus from apprehension to a sense of control. I suggest a journal just for the purpose of this exercise. By recording only the constructive actions I’ve taken, as well as those others have taken on my behalf, I have something positive to look back on when things feel depressing or anxious.
Some of the actions we can take are to volunteer for a cause or population we believe in supporting. Some places to volunteer may be in the schools or elder centers. Those of you who have a particular talent like art or music may find joy in teaching and sharing your gifts with others.
Limiting the amount of news and scrolling can be useful, as well as limiting negative talk with friends. Try not to go down a rabbit hole of horrible things that are going on in the world if there is nothing you can do about it. When you’re with friends, ask to limit negative talk to a set period of time, and change the topic at the end of that time.
Take positive action where possible. If writing a letter or making a phone call to express your opinion is helpful, by all means, do it. Becoming involved in organizations that support your beliefs can also be useful.
During the course of your week, be sure to include activities such as meditation, exercise, and spending time in nature, all of which help to reduce stress and cultivate a more balanced perspective. Record all of these in your positive, empowered journal.
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s all too easy to become overwhelmed by the demands and uncertainties of life. The constant bombardment of information and responsibilities can leave us feeling powerless and disconnected from our sense of joy and purpose. However, amidst this chaos, there are ways to reclaim our sense of empowerment and optimism.
