What I’ve realized from this election more than anything else is that our emotions are contagious and if allowed, our emotions can get the better of us.
Trump and the protestors have tapped our emotions like no one ever before. I’m usually someone who accepts the election results and moves on. This time has been harder because the emotions on both sides are so raw.
People are hurt and angry. Trump’s campaign and the protests have seemingly provided everyone with permission to express their feelings — the good, bad and ugly.
So I started giving more thought to how we move forward. Other leaders are apparently thinking the same thing because their answers starting showing up in my inbox.
Vote with your dollars. Sallie Krawcheck, CEO of Ellevest highlighted the fact that women control $5 trillion of investable assets, direct 80% of consumer spending and make up more than half of the workforce. Make your voice heard by spending in ways that are consistent with your values.
Follow your passion. Fred Wilson, a New York Venture Capitalist advised his followers to throw themselves into their work. He highlighted some of the important work his portfolio companies are doing to make our lives better and more secure. Work for a company with a mission that inspires you to do your best work.
Give a hand up. A good friend shared a list of volunteer opportunities that support the stronger together theme. Use your time and money to help others and causes that share your values. As Tony Robbins pointed out during his Dreamforce speech, if you’re not willing to give 10 cents of a dollar now, you will not give more when you become rich. Give whatever amount you can afford to give now.
This election has also made it clear for me that the new economy is not working for Americans with no college eduction. Few, if any were able to make the leap to a brighter future when manufacturing jobs moved offshore.
We should all heed two lessons from this election:
Invest in education. Invest in your own skills and knowledge to remain relevant and employable. Reportedly, 67% of Millennials believe it is management’s job to provide accelerated development opportunities. Don’t rely on someone else to invest in you. Education gives you the power to choose your future.
Consider both sides of the equation. For many companies there is a correlation between revenue and expenses. Cheaper clothes and phones are not an advantage to people with no money. It’s important for us all to consider how business decisions will impact people as both an employee and customer.
I heard the term “election stress” several times during the campaign. If you’re feeling stressed whether from the election or just life in general, lace up your sneakers and go for a walk, head to the gym for a workout or do whatever you like to do. It will make you feel a lot better and give you the strength to carry on.
Take care of yourself A healthy diet and regular exercise is the best prescription to manage stress. When I got edgy as a teen, my father used to ask me “When was the last time you were submerged in water?” I was a competitive swimmer then so that was all I needed to hear to know that I was overdue from a swim. Trust me – I good workout can help change your perspective.
~S
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