As we find ourselves deep in the days building up to the presidential election, it’s easy to either compartmentalize our fears or let worrying thoughts take over our minds. An alternative approach might be to concentrate on the small things that we can control that bring us peace. I recently complimented a patron on a campaign pin they were wearing, and they said that they spend hours every night making them to help manage their stress. While that’s a productive means to alleviate some anxiety, there might be other things to do to refocus our attention, and get a healthy amount of rest.
Consider the idea of consciously cultivating more moments of joy. It might be a daily habit, like waking early and going for a walk, while reflecting on the people in our life whom we treasure. Maybe it’s carving out time to begin a project we’ve been putting off. Or, perhaps, it’s reinvesting in ourselves by engaging in a new fitness activity with Hiveclass. If pickleball or yoga are not for you, we have created multiple resource guides that could be helpful in a variety of different pursuits. Check out our Language Learning Resource Guide to discover all of the resources beyond Mango that can help you on your journey. Maybe you’d like to research your family tree. Use our Family History & Genealogy Resource Guide. Interested in Princeton and local history? Click here to explore starting points for your research.
If you’re not feeling ready for self-investment, how about lending a hand to others? It could be as simple as helping an elderly neighbor with a ride to a doctor’s appointment, or you could volunteer for a local organization. VolunteerMatch is an excellent resource to locate opportunities. Users can search geographically, by interest, virtual or in-person. There is something for everyone from making a lasagna for someone who could use a meal to becoming a business mentor through SCORE, and more. The Friends & Foundation of the Princeton Public Library is always looking for volunteers to help with the book store. However you decide to cultivate your joy, know that the library is a willing partner.
Photo courtesy of the author.