None of us individually has the power to...

Dear Friends,

As we count down the days to the presidential election, many of us are finding it difficult to think about anything else. We're anxious, sleepless, swimming in an existential soup. And of course we have our phones and iPads in our hands, continuously doomscrolling.

All of this seems reasonable to me. The stakes in this election are genuinely high. Of course we're worried! But here's the thing: obsessing over doomsday scenarios isn't good for us. And it's not leading anywhere productive anyway. As much as we women like being in control, none of us individually has the power to determine who will win on November 5th.

We have a lot of control in other areas, though. In addition to setting boundaries for our media consumption (especially before bed!) there are practical steps we can take, such as getting involved in the election by donating money or writing and calling voters. I know that many of you are working hard for your political candidates. And of course we can vote, and encourage friends, family members and neighbors to vote as well.

You'll find a collection of strategies for moderating anxiety in the "tips" section at the bottom of this newsletter. I didn't make these things up; you know what they are as well as I do. I just thought it might be helpful to remind you to practice them, as I'm reminding myself.

Meanwhile, we have each other! Most of us have a lot more friends now that we're members of Women's Connection. Get together with your friends -- in person if you can. Attend chapter events. Go to the national calendar below and sign up for virtual events as well.

We're all in this together, doing the best we can. Honestly, in this truly challenging time, I can't think of many things that feel better than that.

With my warmest wishes,

Darla Hastings

Executive Director