1. Avoid “speculative anxiety”
Stay away from news and media that is fretting over what might happen. Instead, use the time between election and inauguration to make plans for what I do next.
2. Accept that change is inevitable. (This was bound to happen sooner or later.)
The country and the world will never be the same. Perhaps our work now can make it better in the long run. Meanwhile, protest when necessary, speak up when possible, and oppose the ideas and policies of the new administration.
3. Be aware of the big issues, but focus on where I can make a difference
For example, I am concerned about climate change, but do not have the ability to affect policy decisions. Instead, I can focus on a small chunk of the issue, perhaps encouraging the use of Native Plants.
What other issues am I concerned about? What else can I do to be an agent of positive change? Who else can I support in their efforts towards change?
4. In all things, treat everyone the way I want them to treat the people I care about
Hate the ideas and actions of the administration. But, don’t hate the people that support them. Focus on living like what I believe is true.
5. Learn from this experience.
My premise: not all voters for Trump seem to share his selfish belief system. What does he offer them that seems to be stronger than their common sense? What can we learn from them about their needs, their beliefs, their sense of what is right and wrong? Can we find ways to work together for a greater good?
You are guiding us toward constructive responses to a very destructive agenda cooked up by Trump and his wealthy supporters, and I appreciate your common sense, matter of fact, way of thinking.
This is a good list for anyone who's questioning and sad about what happened on Nov. 4. It's not just Nov. 4, but also what we're learning about Trump's plans for Cabinet positions, immigration and other key issues. There are also issues at a state level, including here in North Carolina. I'll look at this list a few more times and see what makes sense for me to do and other things I might initiate (and efforts I might join). Thanks for putting this down in writing! It's very helpful!