In these stressful times, what should we do? Here’s how to find stability | Opinion
I was looking out the window of a plane on a recent work trip when I found myself thinking about a question I’ve been hearing again and again — from friends, neighbors and people in my civic and professional circles:
“What should we do at this moment in the United States?”
It’s a fair question. It’s also a hard one. And at times, it has felt like any answer I might give would fall short, given the sheer weight of what’s happening, from Immigration and Customs Enforcement policy changes and crises, to the economic uncertainty and job losses driven, in some cases, by rapid changes in technology and artificial intelligence.
My honest answer is that there is no single, universal response. What we do depends on our values, our resources and our connection to community and information. But there are some principles that can help guide us, especially in moments that feel politically, socially and economically unsettled.
I’ve spent much of my career in journalism, working in various roles from reporting, editing, business development and revenue generation. I’ve even taught college business and media classes that included lessons on ethics. Lately, I’ve been jotting down thoughts wherever I can — on napkins, in my phone, during flights with spotty Wi-Fi. Here are a few reflections I keep coming back to:
Start by defining your values. Not just in the abstract, but in practical terms. How do you believe people should be treated at work, in your neighborhood, in your family, in your community? What do dignity, fairness and responsibility actually look like in daily life? Your answers should guide your decisions, especially when things feel uncertain or polarized.
Decide what kind of action makes sense for you. Action looks different for different people. Some will take quiet, private steps. Others will be more public. Some will focus locally, while others will engage nationally. For some, action means sharing reliable information, helping others understand the difference between fact and opinion, organizing or protesting, convening conversations, documenting what’s happening or simply showing up consistently in their communities. There is no single correct way to engage — but there is value in being intentional.
Take care of yourself as best you can. This sounds obvious, but it’s often the first thing people abandon. Without rest, it’s almost impossible to sustain the energy, clarity, or resilience that meaningful work, whether civic, professional or personal requires.
Pay attention to local news outlets
Be deliberate about what information you consume. Choose three to five sources you trust. Understand what kind of information you’re reading or viewing. Is it reporting, opinion, commentary or speculation? Pay attention to your local news outlets, and local organizations that employ trained journalists. If you’re able, financially support them. Many are nonprofits.
Talk to real people, in real life. Not just online. Make a habit of having ongoing conversations with at least three to five people from different backgrounds. Ask what they’re reading or watching — and why. Listening matters more than we often admit.
Do what you can to stabilize your household and build skills. This is easier for some families than others. The data and lived experience tell us that Black and brown families, in particular, face higher unemployment rates, including right now. Many people are making tough, pragmatic choices: living in multi-generational households, delaying retirement if they can, taking on additional work even while working full-time, or learning new skills to change industries.
None of this is simple. None of it is a cure-all.
In moments like this, I believe clarity about our values, our information, our communities and our capacities is not just helpful — it’s necessary.
There may not be a single answer to “What should we do?” But there is a way to move forward with intention, integrity and care for one another. And that’s a place worth starting.
Ebony Reed is a community board member at KCUR 89.3, Kansas City’s NPR member station and chief strategy officer at the nonpartisan, nonprofit news organization The Marshall Project, which covers the justice system and immigration at themarshallproject.org She is co-author of the book “Fifteen Cents on the Dollar: How Americans Made the Black-White Wealth Gap.”