The “World” is a crazy place and at times it can seem like it is spinning out of control… because it very well might be, and usually is… At times like this, my resolve to stay focused on what I can control is pushed and tested. It is tempting to get into the headlines, the social media posts, the video feeds, and the chaos to try and make sense of what on earth could possibly be going on.

I have learned through my experience as a member of the Profession of Arms and as a practitioner in the Helping Professions that the best thing I can do in times like this is to focus inward.

If I let the “news of the day” or the actions of others influence and drive me, I know I will increase the chances of becoming dysregulated and making an error in judgement. So I mindfully and deliberately turn my focus inward. I check on my own emotions and my own thoughts. I look for insights into my own actions, decisions, and behaviors to ensure I am operating in line with what I hold as the highest of ideals.

I lean on the helpful specific superfoods I have used over the years and I seek out my cognitive biases and problematic patterns of thinking so I can view the chaos of the world from a position of stability and strength. 

When the world around us is going crazy, it becomes a critical task for us to stay stable and sane.

Here are some tips:

1. Shut Off the News feed – Headlines are designed to generate clicks by triggering emotions. You don’t have to let yourself be ambushed by these tactics. You can maneuver around them to get the information you need or want. 
2. Breath – I will never stop reminding people that breathing is a super power. We can use it to ramp ourselves up or slow ourselves down. Don’t wait until you find yourself at full throttle to try and back off the gas. Make it a ritual that you use throughout the day to keep yourself steady.
3. Train Your Mind – Dive into something that truly interests you and will help you grow. Take a class or on-line course, read the great works, study your religious texts (or someone else’s). 
4. Train Your Body – Get some exercise. Specifically some strength training. There is a lot to be said for bringing yourself into the moment by challenging yourself to pick up heavy weights over and over again.
5. Get Outside – Don’t forget to watch the sun go by, the moon rise and fall, and the stars burn bright in the seemingly endless void of space and time. You might find some new perspective there.
6. Do Something New – Find something that peaks your interest and draws your attention away from the chaos. I recently picked up my bow and started shooting again. 

I hope this helps you find some peace and stability amidst the churn and the chaos...