I’ve counseled and coached many people over the years who struggle with accepting the results of the election in America. It doesn’t matter which side they are on. Some are practically ready to build underground bunkers stocked with canned beans, while others are convinced that their emotional support coffee mug just isn’t strong enough for what they fear will come next.

We all wrestle with not having control over things, but there is hope! You don’t need to pack your bags and move to a deserted island. Instead, shifting perspectives and developing new habits can help move from fear, anxiety, depression, and anger to a life filled with contentment, acceptance, serenity, and peace. Here’s how I do it:

1. Practice Daily Gratitude

Bible Verse: “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:18
New Habit: Begin each day by listing three things you’re grateful for. Even if the best thing you can come up with is “I didn’t burn my toast this morning,” that’s a win! Focusing on blessings (big or small) can help shift your mindset.

2. Simplify and Focus on Needs, Not Wants

Bible Verse: “But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.” — 1 Timothy 6:6-7
New Habit: Declutter a little each week—your closet, your junk drawer, your social media feed (goodbye, Karen’s daily rants). Less clutter means more peace and fewer things to trip over.

3. Release Comparisons

Bible Verse: “Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else.” — Galatians 6:4
New Habit: Reduce social media scrolling and focus on your own journey. Stop worrying about the neighbor’s Instagram-worthy garden when you’re just proud your one houseplant is still alive.

4. Trust God with Your Needs

Bible Verse: “So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ … But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” — Matthew 6:31-33
New Habit: Whenever anxiety creeps in, take a deep breath and pray (instead of panic-Googling worst-case scenarios). God’s got this.

5. Celebrate the Successes of Others

Bible Verse: “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” — Romans 12:15
New Habit: Be happy for others instead of feeling envious. Your friend got a promotion? Celebrate with them! Your cousin just lost five pounds? Remind yourself that cake is still delicious.

6. Limit Desires for Material Wealth

Bible Verse: “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.’” — Hebrews 13:5
New Habit: Stick to a budget that prioritizes what truly matters. And remember, money can’t buy happiness—but it can buy coffee, which is kind of the same thing.

7. Focus on Eternal Values

Bible Verse: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth… but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” — Matthew 6:19-20
New Habit: Spend time giving back. Helping others can be far more rewarding than adding another pair of shoes to your already overflowing closet.

8. Pray for a Contented Heart

Bible Verse: “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.” — Philippians 4:11
New Habit: Ask God to help you find peace and contentment in your current situation. No, it doesn’t mean you suddenly have to enjoy long lines at the DMV, but it does mean trusting that God has a plan.

By developing these habits, you can shift your mindset, reduce stress, and grow in gratitude and faith. Contentment isn’t about having it all—it’s about realizing you already do.

I hope this helps!

Check out my new video on contentment—I’d love for you to like, comment, and subscribe. Share it with someone who might need a little encouragement!

HOW TO STAY SOBER AND CONTENT AT ANYTIME

If you want to join a really supportive and inspiring “family” who does this everyday join us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/speaktomegodimlistening

Prayers of Blessings to you!

Linda