The World Feels Like a Mess—Here’s How to Stay Sane

From TikTok drama to government chaos—how to stay informed without losing your mind 🤯

Author

Shira Lazar
February 10, 2025

It’s been a tough beginning of the year for many of us.

Life is lifeing as usual, but then came the California fires, a major government transition, a TikTok shutdown, and plane crashes—and we’re only in February.

I was in D.C. over the past week, and the energy could only be described as WTF, uncertain, and chaotic. Here’s a quick recap:

President Donald Trump, in collaboration with Elon Musk, has initiated aggressive reforms targeting federal agencies. The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has embedded teams within various federal departments, aiming to cut government spending and eliminate what they deem ineffective programs. This has raised concerns about transparency and accountability, as Musk’s team operates discreetly, often displacing career officials.

The approach feels more like a startup or tech company takeover strategy rather than how one should handle a country. Phil Ranta laid this out well in a recent LinkedIn post, and shared the concerning implications of this tactic.

The dismantling of the Agency for International Development (USAID) is a prime example. Within days of Trump’s inauguration, USAID faced lockdowns, website shutdowns, and mass layoffs, leading to chaos among its employees.

Elon Musk’s significant influence in Washington has also drawn skepticism. His role in DOGE, combined with substantial political donations, has led to concerns about an "unelected shadow government" wielding unchecked power. Analysts warn that this concentration of authority could lead to a constitutional crisis.

TikTok Drama Continues...

Then there’s TikTok. Remember, it’s supposed to shut down soon? The news moves fast! President Trump recently announced plans for a U.S. sovereign wealth fund to possibly buy the 50 percent of TikTok needed for it to survive. This raised concerns about the government owning a stake in a major platform, sparking fears it could become a propaganda tool aka state run media. The Conversation published a great breakdown of what this could look like.

Days later, Elon Musk clarified that he has no interest in acquiring TikTok, dispelling swirling rumors. Meanwhile, Trump has handed control of TikTok's future to his VP, JD Vance—potentially signaling that a deal is nowhere in sight.

Every day, I wake up wondering what craziness will take over the headlines. It’s hard to keep up, and it’s draining to say the least. This isn’t random, though. It’s actually a pretty strategic approach referred to by Trump’s former Chief Strategist, Steve Bannon, as “flood the zone”—a tactic originally coined by Vladimir Putin. The idea? Overwhelm the public and the media with so much news they can’t possibly keep up.

So, What Can You Do?

In moments like this, regaining a sense of what you can control is key. Here’s how:

  1. Limit News Consumption
    Constant exposure to distressing news can heighten anxiety. Set specific times to check updates and avoid endless scrolling.

  2. Focus on What You Can Control
    Concentrate on aspects of your life where you have influence. This might include your daily routine, personal relationships, or self-care practices.

  3. Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques
    Mindfulness exercises, like deep breathing or meditation, can help ground you in the present moment and reduce stress.

  4. Stay Connected with Others
    Building and maintaining social connections offers support during turbulent times. Share your feelings with trusted friends or family for relief and perspective.

  5. Engage in Physical Activity
    Regular exercise is a proven stress reliever. Whether it’s a brisk walk, yoga, or a workout session, physical activity can boost your mood and energy levels.

    Take It a Step Further:

  • Call Your Senator or Congressperson: Let your voice be heard on policies that affect you and your community.

  • Focus on Personal Integrity: Doing the right thing—even when no one is watching—builds resilience and inspires others.

  • Take Local Action: Volunteer, support local organizations, or join community initiatives. Being of service not only helps others but can also spark joy, boost happiness, and give you a renewed sense of purpose.

  • Practice Gratitude: Reflecting on what you’re grateful for, even in small ways, can improve your mood and shift your perspective during tough times.

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