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Elections can feel all-encompassing, but meaningful change happens in the days, weeks, and months that follow. Here’s how you can channel your energy post-election!
1. Take Time to Reflect and Process 🧘♂️
Election seasons can be exhausting. Acknowledge the emotions that come up. To decompress, consider journaling or talking with family members, friends, colleagues, and others. Giving yourself space to process can help you reconnect with what matters to you. Here’s a meditation to try!
2. Focus on What You Can Control ✊
It’s okay to feel disheartened if outcomes aren’t what you hoped for, but redirecting your energy to things you can influence can help keep you grounded. If you care about climate action, health policy, or education reform, take action in ways that feel meaningful to you, from advocating locally to raising awareness. Young People’s Alliance is a great place to get started!
3. Find Small Actions that Make a Difference 💞
Change isn’t limited to the national stage; small actions in your community can make a significant impact. Be a part of that change! Volunteer with local organizations, write letters to representatives, or support causes close to your heart. Every bit of effort helps build the world you want to see.
4. Stay Engaged and Informed 📖
It’s easy to check out once the election passes and continue with life, but ongoing civic engagement makes a huge difference. Attend community meetings, sign up for newsletters from organizations that align with your values, or join discussions on issues that matter to you. You can even get involved with your school board to influence school-based policies!
5. Build Community Resilience 🌱
We’re stronger together. Connect with others who resonate with your values, and form groups that can support each other’s efforts. Being part of a community that’s focused on positive action is a great way to stay motivated and make a difference over the long haul. Bring people together, share ideas, and learn from each other!
Remember, democracy is a marathon, not a sprint. The election may be over, but your voice, your actions, and your resilience will continue to shape our shared future!!
Here are a few resources:
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 if you or someone you know is in mental or emotional distress.
TREVOR Project – LGBTQIA+ Youth who are looking for confidential crisis support. Call 1-866-488-7386 or text ‘START’ to 678-678.
