Hello Chaos, Meet Calm

With the election coming up, it feels like there’s more noise than ever. Emotions are running high, and it’s easy to get swept up in all the tension and division. Personally, I can feel it creeping in—the sense of dread that comes from knowing how intense things might get. As someone who leads from Type 4 on the Enneagram (more on that in a minute), my instinct is to retreat and protect my inner world from all the noise. I know I’m not the only one feeling this way. 

One thing I’ve realized—we all have a responsibility to play our part in the election process. It’s important to show up, cast our votes, and contribute to the future we want to see. At the same time, I recognize that the chaos surrounding it can be overwhelming. For me, nature is my grounding space. I find peace in the brilliant colors of autumn, the noisy geese flying south, and the stillness of the water. I avoid the news and focus my energy on positive, heartwarming stories. That’s what helps me stay centered.

Now, if you’re not familiar with the Enneagram, it’s a tool that helps us understand how we each see and navigate the world. There are nine different types, and we each lead from one. Knowing your type can give insight into how you respond to stress, how you recharge, and what brings you peace. As we all move through this chaotic time, I want to share how each Enneagram type might find ways to unplug, destress, and stay grounded.

How Each Enneagram Type Can Unplug and Find Balance

• Type 1: The Perfectionist
  Create order in your space. Focus on small, manageable tasks—whether that’s organizing a room or journaling your thoughts. Let yourself rest, knowing that you’ve done enough.

• Type 2: The Helper
  Practice self-care by setting boundaries around your time and energy. Take a break from helping others and focus on something that brings you joy—whether it’s a favorite hobby or a moment of quiet.

• Type 3: The Achiever
  Slow down and focus on presence, not productivity. Engage in activities that bring joy and connection without the pressure to perform or accomplish.

• Type 4: The Individualist
  Retreat into beauty. Whether it’s spending time in nature, listening to music, or enjoying solitude, give yourself space to reflect and recharge in ways that feel authentic to you.

• Type 5: The Investigator
  Step back from information overload. Create boundaries around media consumption and focus on activities that help you recharge—reading, quiet time, or working on a personal project.

• Type 6: The Loyalist
  Ground yourself through routine and familiarity. Practice calming activities like yoga, deep breathing, or spending time with people who bring you a sense of safety.

• Type 7: The Enthusiast
  Slow down and savor the small joys. Engage in simple pleasures like cooking, reading, or quiet time outdoors. Focus on the present moment rather than seeking constant excitement.

• Type 8: The Challenger
  Release the need for control. Allow yourself to rest and focus on activities that release tension—whether it’s physical exercise or quiet reflection. Find balance in knowing you don’t have to manage everything.

• Type 9: The Peacemaker
  Create a peaceful environment for yourself. Avoid stressful conversations and create boundaries around media that feels overwhelming. Surround yourself with calm and stillness.

This election season, remember that while it’s vital to do our part, it’s just as important to protect our peace. We can vote, we can engage, but we also need to care for ourselves in the process. By finding gratitude in small, everyday moments and knowing when to unplug, we can stay grounded in what truly matters.

Take a moment now—what’s one small thing you’re grateful for today? Share it in the comments or on social media, and let’s remind each other that even in chaotic times, there’s always something to appreciate.

Love is ALL there is!

Diana