Election Day Woes?
Tips for Taking Control and Staying Positive
Election Day is a big day here in America. Stress and fear hover just above our heads — graying clouds blot out the sun. I’ve received the texts and calls and had the conversations to prove it. You know, the ones: I’m terrified, one friend says. Another says I’m leaving the country — I can’t deal with this election — I fly on Tuesday. We’re terrified, another writes. It’s so scary, another says.
No judgment. There’s a lot at stake, no matter what side you fall on or your beliefs. I understand. Because I was making those phone calls, sending those texts, and having those conversations during the last two presidential elections. But this time, I dropped out. I’m not playing that game anymore.
I have one friend whose mood is determined by the whims of cable news. She’s glued to her TV, social media feed, polls, and favorite pundits.
This time, I made the conscious decision to stop playing this game. I don’t want to worry. I don’t want to let all those outside influences affect my insides. Why should I be miserable? Worrying won’t change the outcome. Worrying won’t make you feel better. Worrying is not empowering, but instead, disempowering.
Here are just a few of the physiological and mental effects of worry, according to Web MD:
