The Resilience Reset: Thriving in a Post-Election World
Election years don’t end on Election Day. For many of us—especially women, people of color, immigrants, and small business owners—the months following an election can feel like we’ve jumped into an alternate universe. A new administration may not take office until January, but the ripple effects of change, uncertainty, and fear are already felt.
If you’re already working through the emotions and ready to take action, here are two incredible resources to start with:
- What If Trump Wins? A resource hub designed to help individuals organize, advocate, and prepare for critical challenges.
- 10 Things to Do If Trump Wins A powerful guide to channeling uncertainty into meaningful action.
Now, for those still navigating the emotional whirlwind, or looking to build resilience while the dust settles, here’s how I’ve learned to stay grounded in times of uncertainty.
As a Marvel Fan, I Feel Like We’ve Jumped the Sacred Timeline.
I grew up with a comic-book-head dad—the kind of father who filled my childhood with superheroes, alternate dimensions, and the epic battles of good versus evil. That love for comics transitioned seamlessly into my obsession with Marvel movies—timelines, multiverses, and all.
Y’all can laugh at my comparison if you want (I know it sounds dramatic), but I swear I’m being serious. In the Marvel Cinematic Universe, timelines can split, diverge, and lead to alternate realities where everything feels just slightly (or completely) off.
That’s exactly how I felt during the 2024 election—as if we’d veered off the “sacred timeline” into a chaotic, unpredictable version of reality.
Maybe it was my deep-rooted sense of hope, but the results shattered me. For an entire evening, I fell apart, overwhelmed by the uncertainty of what this new reality would mean for me, my family, and my community. It felt like everything I thought I knew about the future had shifted.
But here’s the thing about those Marvel alternate timelines: even in the chaos, the characters regroup, adapt, and take action. That’s exactly what I had to do.
A Blueprint for Navigating Chaos
But here’s the thing about navigating alternate timelines: even in the chaos, the characters regroup, adapt, and take action. That’s exactly what I had to do—but in the REAL WORLD. Because life is not a comic book. (Althought, sometime’s its scarier.)
Bit by bit, I pieced myself back together with the help of community connection, mindfulness, and mindset tools that helped me refocus.
These are the seven strategies I’ve used to navigate uncertainty and chaos—my mini reset playbook.
The 7-Step RESILIENCE RESET
Treat Fear Like a Signal, Not a Stop Sign
Fear doesn’t mean stop—it means pay attention. What’s driving your anxiety right now? Is it financial stability? Safety for your family or community? Get specific about your concerns, because clarity turns fear into focus. Once you name it, you can act on it.
Build a ‘Resilience Budget’
Uncertainty drains your resources—your energy, time, and emotional bandwidth. Create a “resilience budget” by identifying what you need to conserve and where you can cut back. This could mean limiting media exposure, saying no to certain commitments, or delegating tasks. Conserve your strength for what matters most.
Fortify Your Circle
This isn’t the time to go it alone. Surround yourself with people who remind you of your strength, offer clarity when you’re overwhelmed, and share your vision for a better future. Resilience isn’t built in isolation—it grows through connection.
Prepare for What You Can Control
Uncertainty doesn’t mean powerlessness. Ask yourself, “What’s the worst-case scenario I’m worried about?” Then take one small action to prepare for it. Whether it’s securing financial stability, updating important documents, or finding advocacy networks, preparation builds confidence in uncertain times.
Anchor Yourself in Habits
When the world feels unstable, small daily habits can bring grounding and focus. Choose one or two habits—whether it’s a morning routine, journaling, or calling a friend—and commit to them. These practices can act as your foundation, even when everything else feels chaotic.
Rest and Recharge
This season isn’t a sprint; it’s a marathon. Resilience is built when we give ourselves permission to pause and recharge. Whether that’s through mindfulness, creative outlets, or moments of joy with loved ones, prioritize recovery so you can keep showing up.
Transform Anxiety into Action
For those who feel ready to act, taking purposeful steps can provide clarity and connection. Whether that’s volunteering, organizing, or simply showing up for your community, action grounds us in possibility.
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You can also connect with me on LinkedIn or send a quick email hello to: yvonne@socialedg.com