Finding Calm in the Midst of Chaos: A Gentler Approach

What do you do to achieve calm amidst chaos?

This writing prompt led me to take inventory about how to find calm in the midst of chaos—in a world that is often in overdrive. I believe we gain more thoughtful appreciation for each other when we pump the brakes before we push the accelerator.

What Creates Calm in the Midst of Chaos?

One of my ideas for a calmer and more considerate world would be to incorporate a universal 6-month incubation process to transition high schoolers to adulthood. Upon graduation, everyone would get to choose from one of these three public service options:

1. Mission Work/Learn a trade (construction, road work, roofing, plumbing)
2. Military
3. Public service/Retail (restaurant, call center, gas station, bank, department stores)

A Vision for a Calmer World: The 6-Month Incubation Idea

Each person would be matched with an experienced mentor from that field to observe and serve others. After 6 months of adulting in their chosen service field, they would then be encouraged to enter college, choose a vocation, or career field. I think we gain awareness of our impact on each other when we work public services of some type.

Small-Scale Strategies for Finding Peace in a Chaotic World

On a smaller scale, I see greater understanding when we let someone finish their story, or at least their sentence, without interruption. At home, our family gives each other 10 minutes of quiet space when they first get home. This gives everyone time to switch gears from job/school/errands/activities and leads to more peaceful evenings at home.

The 10-Minute Quiet Transition Rule

I also use this 10-minute quiet strategy at work to allow each employee time to transition from car-to-career. Individually or globally, I’ve noticed more consideration when we pump the brakes rather than push the accelerator to start a day.

Pump the Brakes Before You Push the Accelerator

Whether at home or work, finding calm in the midst of chaos starts with simple acts of being present. Ten minutes of quiet. Letting someone finish their thought. Slowing down in a fast-paced world before we rush ahead.

Reader friend! Your turn.

How do you show appreciation for others?

What do you do to respectfully approach each person or situation?

What will you do today to experience a gentler approach to life?

Spreading sunshine, one smile at a time,

Christina

“Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” (Proverbs 16:24).