So evidently, there was this crazy election in the past week. It freaked some people out. It elated others. It was, in brief, quite the event.
I imagine the debates will continue through the end of the year, though it's likely that this particular president may earn more scrutiny than any U.S. president in history. Hence, politics might be more "in your face" than ever before, even once we're well into 2017. This will only translate to more arguments and accusations and general bad feelings.
Well, in the meantime, my suggestion is to focus on something a wee bit cheerier. The holidays are basically upon us and regardless of how you celebrate or what/who you worship or what you value, it's a good time to focus on that which really matters. Plus, by being all optimistic and happy, you can help stimulate the economy, which means whistling while you walk can have a two-pronged positive effect. :)
If you're satisfied with the election results, you're already in a good mood. You're ready to see what the next four years bring and you're relieved that the Democrats and liberals have been forced to relinquish their vice-like hold on the country (at least in part). So, you have no excuse: Get out there and celebrate. Get with friends, toast the future, go do fun things like movies, concerts, shopping, travel, etc. This activity alone is a positive thing because not only are you spreading good vibes (the liberals should love this Kumbayah side of the proposal, anyway, but I'm getting to them), but you're also stimulating the economy.
Democrats and all the other people moaning and groaning about the election: It will only make things worse to sit home and grouse about it online. That does nothing. All it really does is make your mood worse - as you will invariably butt heads with the very people you dislike, and you certainly won't sway their beliefs - and you're not actually doing anything. Regardless of who's in the White House, it's always a good thing to step outside your door and be active. You'll be happier, first of all (which in turn leads to greater productivity and a far better self-image), and even the smallest contribution to the economy can be a big deal during the holiday season. Just purchasing gas or a Christmas card is enough for one outing, you know? Put a smile on your face and a little money in the U.S. till.
In short, there's no reason for anyone, the celebrators or the complainers, to exacerbate any existing problems in our country by getting all angry and moody and, well, inert. Stopping isn't an option. Press forward. You will improve your state of mind, likely improve the state of mind of those around you (good cheer really is infectious), and help the economy function like the well-oiled machine it can be when everyone is pitching in.
Besides, what's done is done. Nothing you can do about it now. It's not selfish at all to focus on you, especially when that focus also involves friends and family this time of year. Cherish that which is is most dear and valuable to you, make it known that you're striving to be happy and forward-thinking, and yeah, buy a few things. Don't go nuts; don't put yourself in significant debt, or anything, because that really will make things worse down the road. But the overwhelming majority of you can do at least a little, even if it's just to make someone else happy for a day.
Rather than worry about what the new government is going to do, take care of yourself and if everyone does this, the government won't have to step in as much, right? Take some responsibility for your life and for the next few months, put your happiness and mood at the top of the priority list. Go for a jog, buy a little something for someone, work a little extra overtime so you have some spending money. Smile at people while you're doing it. People can argue all day long over what this country was founded on but in principle, the simple a priori truth of the matter is that this country was founded on, and can only operate at peak performance, on thing thing: Activity.
It's a very general term, of course, but I suggest we all embrace everything it could mean in the immediate future. If we do, things will look much brighter in January, I promise. :)
Most Helpful Opinions