How to drive change when the whole world is going to sh*t
In the time between writing and sending this, there’s no doubt that a lot will have happened in the world.
The news is coming in so fast, it can feel like we’re swimming in a current of chaos. There’s real fear over how people are being affected, and it’s a tough state to exist in.
And while some of us dive into the details, trying to consume everything and be part of the fight, others seek moments of joy as a form of resistance. And then there are those who just need to detach and process in their own way. They’re all valid responses. For me, I often cycle through all three in one day.
Just two days after the executive order limiting federal funding for certain organizations, I joined a webinar hosted by a nonprofit association. The Zoom chat was full of comments and questions, which I noticed fell into three major buckets:
The technical side of how this order will impact our work
How do we communicate effectively about the changes and what they’ll mean
Dealing with the ongoing burden of the anxiety and constant worry that comes with this uncertainty
Understanding how we will approach these three crucial areas provides a handy roadmap for the months ahead.
As a changemaker, you need a strategy in each of these major areas:
Handling Technical Questions:
Now more than ever, it’s important to align yourself with organizations that are navigating these changes effectively. If you’re not already part of a peer group, it’s time to join one or start one. Having that network, where you can pick up the phone and ask, “What are you doing about this?” is invaluable. It’s about sharing resources, strategies, and supporting one another through these challenging times.
Communicating Clearly on Social Media:
In the midst of uncertainty, grounding yourself in the core story you want to communicate is key. Crisis communication can often spiral into frantic or negative messaging - don’t give in to that temptation. You need to be the steady voice in the chaos. Focus on the facts, but always tie those facts back to your vision. Acknowledge where we are, but focus on where we’re going. It’s not about sugar-coating the truth, but offering hope and clarity while remaining firmly rooted in the reality of the situation.
Dealing with Anxiety During Uncertain Times:
Anxiety looks different for everyone. Some may feel the need to consume every bit of information available, while others will need to step back and recharge. The key is to develop an approach that works for you and your team. But I can tell you two ideas that are helping me a lot:
There are no final victories. No one gets to bank their achievements. Society is fluid, and we get to keep working toward a kinder and more equitable world.
Life goes in phases. This current phase of chaos and reactivity is temporary and won’t last forever. This reminder is essential to keeping your energy alive and your purpose intact. In social change, there are always next steps forward.
This work is difficult because we care deeply about the change we’re trying to make. But it’s also this very passion that keeps us going. The key is to keep moving forward - step by step. Stay connected with those who share your mission, and remember that even when the path seems uncertain, your ability to make a difference is constant.