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Overcome Helplessness

It can be challenging to stay motivated when everything around us seems chaotic and scary. But doing something – some action, no matter how small – can lessen some of the uncertainty. What you do doesn’t need to be political – taking a step to stand up for or stand in for a person or a cause or the environment means we’re not powerless. Check out the ideas on this page!

Activism, service and generosity

These are a few ways to promote a sense of empowerment and contribution when we may be feeling helpless!

Want to have a voice in local or national politics? Check this out for ideas! Simply want to support a cause that you care about? You can volunteer locally or for a chapter of a national organization. Start here!

involvement
Learn more about Clubs and Organizations at Stony Brook!
Learn  about  Vision  Boards  here.

goal

Lean on your STRENGTHS

Knowing your strengths can help you address problems more effectively and engage in activities that generate confidence and purpose.

Try taking the VIA Character Strengths Survey to identify your strongest traits.

Connect with your Values

Identifying what is important to us can be one  way to foster motivation. Try one of the values  card sorts below and then consider how you can  express your values on a daily basis.

Online values card sort  

Printable version

Wholeness

Think about what makes you feel whole, grounded, or like you.  It can be helpful to consider Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

maslows hierarchy

 

Materials on this page were adapted from our friends at Penn State Harrisburg.