Finding Calm in a World of Division
Sep 26, 2025
If you’ve felt lately that conversations seem sharper, more divided, and less compassionate, you are not alone. What once felt like thoughtful discussion often now ends in hostility, especially online. It’s disheartening, and at times overwhelming.
In my recent conversation with hypnotherapist Garrett Wood, we explored why this shift has taken place. Much of it comes down to subconscious programming. Old imprints—whether from childhood, past experiences, or even daily exposure to news and social media—can shape how we react, often without us realizing it. Pair that with a culture that rewards outrage, and it’s no wonder so many of us feel caught in cycles of stress, anger, or self-sabotage.
But here’s the hopeful part: while we can’t control the world around us, we can choose how we respond. We can pause, reset, and show up in a way that reflects our values instead of being swept up in reactivity.
5 Ways to Respond with Intention Instead of Reaction
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Pause and Breathe – Before speaking, typing, or posting, take 60 seconds. Breathe in for 4, hold for 4, exhale for 6. This simple act resets your nervous system.
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Check Your Intention – Ask yourself: What do I want to create with this response? If your words won’t bring that outcome, hold back or reframe.
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Name the Emotion – Quietly acknowledge: “I feel angry/sad/frustrated because…” Naming helps soften the charge.
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Borrow Calm – Reach out to a grounded friend, mentor, or even step into nature before responding. Regulation is contagious.
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Choose Long-Term Alignment – Ask: Will my future self be proud of how I handled this? If not, wait and try again.
Compassionate communication begins with self-awareness. By slowing down and choosing intention over reaction, we not only protect our own well-being but also become part of the solution in a world that needs more understanding, not less.
If you’d like to hear the full conversation with Garrett Wood, where we dive deeper into subconscious beliefs, media “hypnosis,” and tools for resilience, you can listen here:
