Elections are contentious times and generally marked by surprises and constant political rhetoric. And this year seems to be worse than most! With the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump and President Biden’s dropping out, this election year has been something to behold. With the election in our country drawing nearer, what can we do to get through this time of uncertainty without losing our minds?

Unplug and Recharge

This was probably what you were expecting to read in an article about how to get through election season, but we could probably all use the reminder anyway: Turn off the news. You probably know who you are voting for, at least in the presidential race. It is rather unique that in this election, we know the track records of our candidates. We’ve seen them in action. We don’t have a new candidate to investigate.

Unplug to whatever extent makes sense in your unique season of life. Fill that vacancy with something more beneficial. Recharge with things that bring you joy and inspiration, like a favorite hobby or time with friends. If you are religious, make a goal to pray before checking the news. And if necessary, skip the political talk with friends and family. There are many other topics of conversation worth discussing.

Read the Candidates’ Websites

If you are unsure who to vote for, especially in local elections with lesser-known candidates, read the candidate’s website.

Politicians generally try to push the narrative that they are moderate. Through speeches, interviews, and—to a lesser extent—debates, politicians want people to view them as down-to-earth and reasonable. However, heading over to a politician’s website will give insight into what is actually on the candidate’s priority list.

If you want to take this a step further, be ready to add information you have learned about a candidate to discussions if they arise. The media has a terrible habit of not giving people the entire picture, and you may be able to open someone’s eyes to the successes or failures of a candidate. Even if you present the facts you have gathered, try to have no expectations of the other person’s reaction. They may draw a different conclusion than you.

Change Your Perspective

Tensions seem to be rising fast as we approach November, so I invite us all to embrace a perspective of detachment and levity. Instead of thinking, This is horrible, and there is no way our country can survive this, sit back, make some popcorn, and see what unfolds. Enjoy the show so to speak. We live in an interesting time politically, and it can be entertaining to see what politicians will think of what to do next. Granted, we still want to hold to our values, and I am not suggesting we stop fighting for what is good and true. Our emotions are valid but should be kept in check. So make this election cycle a spectator sport and find the humor in the antics that will no doubt ensue. Don’t forget to check out the Babylon Bee if you need a laugh.

No matter what happens, we will all find ways to continue to take care of one another and live fulfilling lives to the very best of our abilities. Your purpose is more important than any election. The work you are doing raising your children or excelling in your work or education is doing more for the future of our country than a president ever could.

Banish Fear

While I think this election is important, I highly doubt it will be the biggest election of our lifetimes. And who knows? Maybe it is, but so what?

We hear that phrase—the most important election of our lifetimes—but we forget what it is: a fear tactic. The media and politicians want us to make decisions from a place of fear, rather than comprehensive knowledge. Fear can activate the fight-or-flight response, overriding the brain’s prefrontal cortex. This part of the brain is responsible for analyzing, problem-solving, self-control, and logical thinking.

In turn, the amygdala and hypothalamus go into high gear to prepare the nervous system for danger. Survival and safety are now the brain’s main priorities, and the ability to appropriately analyze is severely impacted.

If constant stress or fear is not dealt with, research has shown the prefrontal cortex may even shrink over time. A brain that is not working to its full potential is at risk for manipulation, impulsivity, and emotional reactions, all of which the media and politicians may use to their advantage.

To banish fear, we need to focus on both physical and mental components of health. Practicing good sleep hygiene, eating nourishing foods, exercising, and getting sunlight help our body regulate. Prayer, meditation, communal worship, and breathwork can relax our bodies, activating the parasympathetic nervous system, turning off the fight or flight response. Don’t forget that cup of tea! Herbal teas like chamomile and lemon balm help calm the mind and body.

Focusing on banishing fear allows us to approach tough situations with our best self, leading to better decision making. I can’t think of a better way to approach this election season.

In the End..

Unless there is a landslide victory one way or the other in November, I fear it will be a month of riots and accusations of fraud. Unfortunately, we cannot control this aspect of our elections.

In the end, we’ll get through this election year. Thankfully, we live in a country where the government is supposed to work for us, and our votes matter. Do not let bitterness or resentment take over or make you feel defeated. There is so much good worth fighting for!

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Image credit: Unsplash