Core Memory

[a slightly dramatic pause] Hi.?

I'm interrupting my newsletter sabbatical to address my emotional control center.?Yes, that references the two Inside Out movies, which are schooling not only kids but adults alike in navigating our feelings. Have you never seen either movie? After reading this newsletter, that's your first call to action (CTA); head to Disney Plus and schedule your therapy appointment disguised as a children's film. If you're already familiar with Riley's headquarters, I'm on the scene where anxiety is starting to overstep and sporadically press buttons. And despite my best efforts to distract that emotion, anxiety is getting bolder and bolder as election night approaches. Since I'm confident I'm not alone, I figured a return to the community that has often inspired me to face unfamiliarity head on was overdue for an update. Let's unpack.

Since Vice President Kamala Harris announced her candidacy for President in July 2024, I've been holding space for conflicting notions as I process the minor victories on the road of progress while continuously questioning this reality. There are days when I truly believe we live in a simulation and this thought experiment is going terribly wrong. But when pessimism overstays its welcome, it's imperative that I counterattack with a plan to protect my peace during election week:

Before the Election?

• Name what you're feeling.

It's crucial to acknowledge what you're feeling. I initially avoided admitting that anxiety was stirring this ship. But once I finally verbalized that I was stressed about the Presidential election, it was a step towards understanding and managing it. Remember, you can't fix what you can't acknowledge.

• Refresh yourself on your company's voting leave policy.?

Utilize the time your organization has allotted for you to vote. After you've cast your vote, make a vow to do one thing that calms your nervous system. For me, it was scheduling a facial immediately after I voted early. There's nothing like a mid-day face massage.

Election Day

I decided against creating an election day itinerary and will certainly go with the flow, but here are mandatory items on my to-do-list:

• I am moving my body no matter what.

We all know the mental benefits of exercise, so make it happen.

• Predetermine how I will mindfully follow election updates.

Setting boundaries and limiting your media consumption can help you stay informed without feeling overwhelmed. Hint: take advantage of those app time limit settings to monitor screen time and usage.

• A social media pause.

Consuming an unreasonable amount of information and opinions throughout the day will be effortless. It's necessary to carve out offline time. Go on a morning stroll, plan a solo lunch date, or link with someone who will remind you what a meaningful connection truly feels like.

• Be intentional with food and beverage intake.

I'm avoiding the comfort foods and beverages that "take the edge off. Dodge the temporary cravings and stick with meals that satisfy you instead of filling you with regret.

After the Election?

• Regardless of the outcome, take the day off.?

I know the show must go on, meaning bills will still be due, and work project deadlines will not disappear. However, this has been an exhausting election cycle, make sure you you are bringing your whole self to work and a ideal mental state to be productive.

• Visualization

Let's do some future imagining and ask yourself the following questions about your post-election day:

-Where do you want to be located physically?

-Who do you want to be around?

-What do you need to avoid?

-What habits might you typically indulge in that only provide a false sense of relaxation??

Once you have pictured how you want to feel the day(s) following the election, make a strategic plan to achieve this outcome and recognize any barriers preventing you from doing just that. This moment in time will be a core memory for all of us. Let's lean in and focus on what we can control. Regardless of how you feel about the candidates, it's your duty to vote and take care of yourself immediately after.

Helpful Links:

Iwillvote.com

Iamavoter.com

833-336-8683 Voter Assistance Hotline

go.kamalaharris.com

#HarrisWalz Let's do this!