The World Is Exhausting :: How to Step Back Without Tuning Out Completely
Anyone else just exhausted by the world right now?! Every time I turn on the TV or scroll through Facebook or Instagram, I immediately feel a wave of hopelessness and anxiety. Lately, I’ve been avoiding TV and the internet altogether just so I don’t have to deal with the latest distractions and disappointments. But — I am an adult, and some things can’t (and shouldn’t) be ignored. Still, a person can only take so much without losing their sanity!
Here are a few ways I’ve been getting by in a world that feels almost unrecognizable these days.
Turn it off. Don’t engage.
While I try to stay informed, I also know I don’t have to engage with everything that pops up. When I feel myself getting upset or annoyed, I simply turn off the TV or put down my phone. Most of the time, there’s nothing I can do in that moment anyway, so I choose not to let it consume me. Instead, I’ll clean, listen to an audiobook, spend time with my family, or get outside — literally anything other than letting a screen irritate me.
Clean up your feed.
I’ve learned that some people on my friends list are not who I thought they were. There’s a lot of hate out there, and people are showing their true colors. In those cases, there’s no need to argue or try to change anyone’s mind — some minds cannot be changed. What I can do is clean up my feed by removing those individuals. I don’t need that negativity in my life, and honestly, many of them aren’t true “friends” anyway.
Use your voice — and your wallet.
While I don’t argue online, I do want to use my voice to speak out against things I disagree with. Truthfully, it often feels like no one is listening, but that doesn’t stop me from taking action. The way I’ve chosen to fight is with my wallet. I work hard not to support businesses and organizations that don’t align with my values. For example, I’ve stopped shopping at Target and canceled my Prime, Hulu, and Disney subscriptions. When I shop local, a quick Google or Facebook search tells me what I need to know before deciding where to spend my money. I’ve even switched from Sam’s to Costco. These days I find myself at Super 1, Dollar General, Aldi, and Walgreens more often. Does this make life easier? No. But it does make me feel better knowing my dollars are going toward businesses that align with my values.
These are just a few of the ways I’ve been protecting my peace while still doing my part.
Are there days when I don’t want to see or hear any of it? Absolutely. Are there days when I can’t ignore it anymore? Yes, that too. But I refuse to let it consume me. Taking breaks is necessary for your sanity. Do what you can, take time for yourself, and remember — this too shall pass.
