With the U.S. presidential election only days away, it’s natural to feel the tension building. Political seasons can bring unique stressors for many high-achieving women in leadership positions who are used to balancing personal, professional, and social roles. Not only is the future unknown, but the intensity of the political climate can feel deeply personal. If you’re feeling nervous or uneasy, you’re not alone—many are grappling with similar emotions, and together, we can navigate these final days with support and practical strategies.
1. Acknowledge Your Feelings Without Judgment
Start by recognizing your emotions. Feeling anxious about potential changes is entirely natural. Women in leadership are accustomed to handling challenges head-on, but this kind of stress, beyond our control, can be particularly unsettling. Remember, emotions aren’t flaws. They’re a normal reaction to uncertainty. By acknowledging your anxiety, you can respond with empathy and understanding, just as you would for a colleague or friend.
2. Identify What’s Causing Your Concern
Election anxiety often stems from specific issues, like economic security, healthcare, or social rights, that directly impact our lives and work. Take a moment to pinpoint the concerns weighing on you the most. Are you worried about policy changes affecting your career, family, or community? By clarifying these triggers, you can separate generalized anxiety from specific concerns, making it easier to address each one effectively and reducing the overall feeling of overwhelm.
For instance, if healthcare policies are on your mind, consider ways to safeguard your current resources. Focus on tangible steps, like setting up a financial buffer or reviewing benefits, to feel more prepared, regardless of the outcome.
3. Cultivate a Sense of Agency
Feeling a lack of control can amplify anxiety, but there are small ways to regain a sense of agency. While you can’t dictate election results, actions aligned with your values can help you feel empowered. These actions include voting, volunteering for causes you care about, or engaging locally in areas that reflect your concerns. For some, leading an informal discussion with peers or colleagues can create a positive, empowering space amid the noise.
Shifting from the uncontrollable to areas within your influence reminds you that even small actions count, providing a sense of purpose and focus.
4. Create a “What-If” Plan to Ease Your Mind
Sometimes, fear comes from imagining worst-case scenarios. Without a plan, these thoughts can snowball, feeding anxiety. Instead, develop a “what-if” plan with practical steps for your top concerns.
For example, if you’re concerned about economic uncertainties, consider updating your emergency fund or exploring other income avenues. Knowing you have a plan—even a basic one—can reduce the weight of “what ifs,” helping you return to the present with a little more peace of mind.
5. Reframe Negative Thoughts
Catastrophic thinking is easy to fall into during stressful times, but reframing these thoughts can be a powerful tool for emotional balance. When a negative thought comes up, ask yourself, “Is this realistic? Is there another, more balanced perspective?”
For instance, if you worry the election outcome could disrupt your industry, look at past instances where you or your company adapted to change. Realizing that resilience and flexibility are part of your professional toolkit can give you a more constructive outlook, making challenges feel less overwhelming.
6. Stay Grounded with Self-Care Routines
Self-care isn’t just a luxury in high-stress times—it’s a necessity. Professional women often push through, but these last few days before the election are an ideal time to embrace grounding routines. Whether it’s morning meditation, a quiet evening walk, or simply spending time with loved ones, these practices can help you reset.
These routines offer relief and provide an anchor amid the chaos. Remember, prioritizing self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential for showing up fully at work and home.
7. Set Boundaries with Media Consumption
With election news and updates everywhere, getting caught up in the cycle is easy. Information overload can quickly lead to mental fatigue and heightened anxiety. Setting boundaries around media consumption helps protect your mental well-being. Try designating specific times to check the news or limiting your intake to a few trusted sources.
Think of these boundaries like work boundaries: just as you wouldn’t answer emails 24/7, aim to avoid continuous political news, which can drain you. Many find that stepping away from social media, even briefly, allows them to re-center and regain calm.
8. Seek Out Support When Needed
During times of stress, remember that you don’t have to go through it alone; if anxiety feels too heavy, lean on trusted friends, mentors, or mental health professionals. Sharing worries can lessen the load and provide you with new perspectives on how to cope effectively.
If you connect with colleagues or friends who share your concerns, organize a supportive, non-political discussion to create a space where you can be open without judgment. Even a tiny conversation can reduce isolation and offer fresh, empowering ideas for navigating this political season.
In Closing
While the unknowns of the election can feel overwhelming, you are more resilient than you may realize. By blending self-compassion with small, intentional actions, you can approach these final days with clarity and strength. When you focus on what you can control and create space for self-care, you’re setting yourself up to face these challenges with grace.
Balancing emotional demands with personal and professional priorities is challenging, especially during such a turbulent time. But by incorporating these strategies, you’re taking meaningful steps to support your mental health and lead with confidence—no matter what the future brings.
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