The state of the world. And the state of your world. In other words, the big picture and the the narrower one pertaining particularly to you and those you love. They may seem like two different phenomena, yet they’re inextricably linked. In the last year, even more so, no matter what your politics. When things weigh you down, what do you do to pick yourself up?

Some actions that help me:

Spending time with people I care about, who also care about me. In my case, that’s my husband or daughter. Sometimes friends. Since neither of my sisters lives nearby, I talk to them by phone. That helps, though it’s not as good as a face-to-face visit over a glass of wine or a latte.

Getting involved with a group that provides stimulating conversation, fun, and friendship.

Escaping with a great book, whether it’s re-reading a favorite one (your comfort food of books, for me an Austen novel) or discovering a new one.

Volunteering.

Walking or going to the gym.

Watching a movie in an actual theater. No distractions, no jumping up to throw a load of laundry in or stick a few dishes in the dishwasher.

Staying off the internet.

Burying yourself in your work, although this poses risks to your sanity as well.

I have found it quite difficult the past year to stay off the internet. I want to know what’s happening in the Kavanaugh hearings. What’s the latest on the mid-term elections? The Mueller Report? The 2020 elections? I remind myself daily to turn on the Freedom app while I’m working and to summon all my will power.

This is a quote from one of the Frog and Toad books: “Willpower is trying very hard not to do something you really want to do.”

I’ve always known those two beloved amphibians were steeped in wisdom.

What do you do to keep from feeling overwhelmed and stay focused on the really important things?