Someone once said (okay, I know exactly who said it…I just don’t feel like naming names today), “They say your attitude determines your latitude.” And honestly, that quote has stuck with me for years. As an older millennial, I’ve certainly witnessed that this world is full of chaos and shenanigans from time to time. And let’s be real, “from time to time” seems to have transformed into “more frequently these days.” So, the big question becomes: how does one stay uplifted, resilient, and positive in these trying, often overwhelming times?

It’s a journey, not a destination, and for me, it involves a few key practices:

1. Be Mindful of Your Media Diet. It used to be just about trying to avoid the nightly news broadcast, but I’m seeing now that negativity is completely seeping into social media too. For my own mental health, I’ve realized I have to slow down on how often I’m online. Social media, while a great tool for connection, can quickly become a toxic echo chamber of comparisons, outrage, and curated anxieties. It’s not about being uninformed, but about being intentionally informed. I’ve had to learn to pause, unfollow certain accounts, mute words, and protect my peace.
2. Tap into Spirituality (Not Necessarily Religion). This isn’t about joining a specific faith, but about connecting to something larger than yourself and understanding your inner world. For me, it’s about being connected to my soul, learning, and contemplating life and how my unique journey is unfolding. This could look like mindfulness practices, reading, spending quality time with my kid, or even the act of writing this very blog, or simply nurturing a sense of gratitude for the small blessings in each day. When you feel a deeper connection to yourself and the universe, external turmoil tends to feel less overwhelming, and you gain a greater sense of peace and perspective.
3. Laugh. Seriously, find something to laugh at.
   Whether it’s memes, ridiculous TikToks, old Big Bang Theory episodes, or calling that one friend who always gets you to snort-laugh…make space for joy. Laughter is medicine, and sometimes, it’s the only thing standing between you and a full-blown existential spiral.
4. Stay connected to your people.
   We’re not meant to do this life thing alone. Talk to your friends, hug your people, send that random “just thinking of you” text. Community…whether in person or virtual…is often what helps us float when everything feels like it’s sinking.

Yes, life is full of wild moments, tough seasons, and unexpected turns. But I believe there’s always some light if we look for it. Our attitude, our perspective, our mindset can be a compass that guides us through.

So here’s to choosing peace, protecting joy, and remembering that it’s okay to unplug, reset, and return to yourself. Your attitude really does determine your latitude. So let’s aim high…mentally, emotionally, spiritually.

You got this. And I do too. 🧘🏽‍♀️✨