So…This Election Happened. How Do We Cope and Move Forward?
Holy shit. Really… where the f*(k do we go from here?
In moments like this, the heaviness can feel unrelenting. You may be feeling a mix of anger, grief, fear, and a strange kind of numbness that comes from being overwhelmed. For so many, this election result has stirred up a storm of emotions and questions: *What will happen next? How can we protect the people and values we care about? And how can we find peace amid all of this?*
First of all, know that you’re not alone in feeling this way. The fact that you’re here, reading this, means you’re probably seeking some clarity or comfort. It means you care, and you’re not ready to let these emotions consume you. Let’s talk through some of these feelings and explore ways to manage them, not by pretending they don’t exist but by honoring and processing them so that you can emerge stronger and more grounded.
Right now, many people are sitting with an almost physical sense of loss and fear. Maybe this election stirred up memories of past disappointments, or maybe it’s reminded you of the larger, seemingly unbreakable systems that you feel powerless to change. It’s important to validate these feelings, not brush them aside. They’re there for a reason—they’re signaling to you that something doesn’t feel safe, that something in this outcome doesn’t align with your deepest values.
Anger is often the first emotion that surfaces in moments like these. It's raw, it’s intense, and it has an undeniable energy to it. But anger can be tricky; if left unchecked, it can quickly turn into bitterness or even despair. To work through this, try letting your anger have a voice in a way that doesn’t cause harm. Whether it’s journaling, talking to a trusted friend, or even doing something active like going for a run or a long walk, give that fire a place to burn.
Grief may also be showing up in waves. This isn’t just about a single election; it’s about mourning a vision you had for the future—one filled with fairness, compassion, and equality. And here’s the thing about grief: it demands to be felt. It’s not something we can “think” our way out of. Give yourself permission to feel this grief without rushing to fix it. Sit with it, honor it, and trust that, like all things, it will eventually shift and lighten.
Fear often bubbles up as questions: *What will this mean for us? How will this affect the people and causes I care about?* Fear is an uncomfortable visitor, but it has its place. Acknowledge the fear without letting it drive you. Try grounding practices—breathing exercises, meditative practices, or even just stepping outside and connecting with nature. These small steps can bring you back to a place of inner calm, even if the world around you feels chaotic.
How to Cope:
So, with all of these feelings swirling around, what do you do? It may sound simple, but you start with you. When you feel grounded and clear, that inner calm creates a ripple effect around you. Here are a few ways to get back to that grounded space.
Spend a few minutes each day checking in with yourself. Find a quiet spot, close your eyes, and just breathe. Ask yourself, *What am I feeling right now?* and *What do I need?* This practice can be especially helpful on tough days. When you tune in, you’ll often find that the answers are simple and within reach, whether it’s stepping away from the news, talking to a friend, or taking a moment to be present with your emotions.
There’s power in connection. Even if it feels tempting to retreat and isolate, reach out to others who understand. Share your feelings openly and listen to theirs in return. You may find comfort in knowing that your community, your people, are feeling the same things. Together, you can offer each other support, perspective, and even a bit of humor on the darker days.
Sometimes, the best way to process difficult emotions is to transform them into something tangible. Consider volunteering, donating to causes you believe in, or becoming more active in your local community. Action has a way of grounding us, of reminding us that even if the big picture feels overwhelming, we can make a difference on a smaller scale.
Remember to let in the light. Even in times like these, you are allowed to find moments of joy. You don’t have to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders 24/7. Read a favorite book, watch a comforting show, or spend time doing something that makes you laugh. Joy can be a powerful form of resistance, and it reminds you that there’s still beauty, even on challenging days.
How You Can Make a Difference
While it may feel like one person can’t possibly influence outcomes on a national scale, change starts small. Here are some gentle ways you can make a meaningful impact:
Education is empowering. Take the time to understand what’s happening beyond the headlines. By educating yourself and those around you, you’re helping to create a more informed community. And remember, engagement doesn’t have to mean overwhelm—find sources that align with your values, and allow yourself to set boundaries with news consumption when it feels too heavy.
Change often starts at the grassroots level. Look around at what’s happening in your local community. Whether it’s city council members, school board elections, or state representatives, these smaller elections shape the way communities are governed. Supporting leaders who align with your values at the local level can create a ripple effect that leads to broader change.
If you’re new to activism, start small. Maybe it’s donating to a cause, volunteering for a local organization, or joining a peaceful protest. Pick a form of activism that feels sustainable for you—something you can commit to without burning out. It’s okay to contribute in ways that feel manageable; activism isn’t about intensity but consistency.
Hope can feel like a big ask right now. But remember, hope doesn’t have to mean blind optimism. Hope is simply the belief that change is possible. Even on days when things feel dark, remind yourself that you are part of a community that cares, that shows up, and that continues to work toward a better future.
_____________
It’s okay if these feelings feel overwhelming, and it’s okay if you’re struggling to process it all. If you feel called to explore this deeper, feel free to check out my services. I am here to talk, to listen, and to offer guidance in whatever way feels right for you. There’s no pressure—just know that you have a space here if you need it.
