Chapter 1: The Challenge of Chaos

In our fast-paced lives, staying centered can feel incredibly challenging. As time goes on, our minds seem to gravitate towards disorder, which is a natural reflection of the universe's tendency towards chaos. Amidst this turmoil, maintaining even a semblance of order can seem like an extraordinary feat.

However, it's essential to stay grounded, both for ourselves and for those we care about. With the hope that my personal insights might be beneficial to others, I would like to share three mantras that I’ve adopted from various sources. I recite these daily, as they provide me with a sense of peace and clarity.

1. “If I can’t sleep, at least I can rest”

It’s three in the morning. Perhaps a troubling dream, an anxious thought about unfinished work, or worries about loved ones keep you alert. The realization that you are awake—especially when you need a good night’s sleep for the day ahead—can be distressing. A while ago, I heard this phrase from hip-hop artist MC Paul Barman: "If I can’t sleep, at least I can rest." This statement resonates deeply. While you may not be able to reclaim lost sleep, you can still grant your body some much-needed relaxation. Keep this in mind when the minutes of sleeplessness feel overwhelming. Remember, your rest is yours to claim, and it might even lead you back to slumber.

2. “Taking action is better than doing nothing”

When the rest (or perhaps sleep) is finally over, a new day beckons. In our modern existence, this often begins with the distractions of the internet or our phones. Many of us find ourselves mindlessly scrolling as a way to cope with morning anxiety. This is akin to having a drink to take the edge off a tough day. Meanwhile, our responsibilities accumulate, leading to a feeling of paralysis. It can feel as though your tasks are a precarious Jenga tower, where pulling out the wrong piece could lead to disaster. But this is merely a myth. Choose any task, no matter how small, and tackle it. The shift in your mood will be significant.

3. “I have control over this day alone, if I’m fortunate”

Lists of tasks can spiral into overwhelming knots, creating a mental landscape filled with dread about the future. Thoughts like “If Monday feels bad, just wait until Tuesday” can cloud your mind. Yet, when you look back on your week, how often do those gloomy forecasts turn out to be accurate by Friday? If you’re lucky, you can exert some control over today, even if unforeseen events derail your plans. Worrying about future uncertainties is merely expending energy on an anxiety trap of your own making.

While these reflections may seem reminiscent of inspirational quotes found under iced tea caps, I assure you that these mantras resonate with me. I sincerely hope they can offer you the same comfort and guidance.

Chapter 2: Finding Your Center