Philosopher George Santayana famously said, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” I believe that’s true. But right now it seems we’re not just repeating history—we’re remixing it and speeding it up.

Also (in my mind) adding a soundtrack by Leonard Cohen, who wrote in his song “The Future”: “Things are gonna slide, slide in all directions.” 

I think this is actually an understatement. But before you panic, breathe with me. Because sliding is not the same as falling apart, and chaos is not just destructive. 

If we can respond to our fears by acting wisely, and not getting trapped in anxiety, we’ll become more and more aware of the intuitive guidance that can help us navigate a sliding terrain. Fear and intuition work together. Anxiety destroys intuition and puts us in even greater danger.

Fear vs. Anxiety: Let’s Get This Straight

Fear is a necessary survival mechanism, the voice that says, “There’s a tornado warning; go to the basement now.” It shows up, delivers its message, and then, when we take constructive action, promptly subsides. 

Anxiety, on the other hand, is endless terror based on “what ifs” and worst-case scenarios that may never happen. It doesn’t help us act; it keeps us spinning. While fear can save our lives, anxiety can endanger us. Learning to tell the difference between the two is not just helpful—it’s essential.

How to Prepare Without Panicking

So, how do we navigate a world where things are sliding? It starts with preparation—not the frantic, bunker-building kind, but calm, practical preparation paired with deep, intuitive listening. Here are some of the most universal steps that keep us safe in chaotic times:

1. Build Your Village
   Humans are wired for connection. Find your people—online, offline, wherever they are. Choose people who feel like home, who share your values, and who will tell you the truth (even when it’s uncomfortable). Stay in touch often. Connection will be your anchor in a sea of uncertainty.
   
2. Stock Up—Calmly
   Yes, it’s wise to keep essentials on hand—medications, pantry staples, and of course, toilet paper. But I’m not saying you should buy 800 cans of baked beans because “the world might end.” Take what you need, trust your instincts, and leave some for the next person.
   
3. Practice Coming Out of Anxiety and Listening to Intuition
   Remember, intuition is your guide, but it doesn’t have a loud, panicked voice; it’s the calm, steady whisper. When I was packing for my long walk across the English countryside, I planned to leave my fancy walking sticks because I’d never used them at home in Pennsylvania. But just before I left, a voice in my head said, “Take those sticks.” 

   “Really?” I thought, “But they’re bulky and unnecessary.” My intuition just repeated, “Take those sticks.” It turned out that the terrain in England was much more unstable and steep than the roads of Pennsylvania. Without those sticks, I couldn’t have finished the long walk.

4. Embrace the Now
   After you’ve done what you can to prepare for legitimate fears and listen for your intuition, let go. Stop trying to control things you can’t control. Return to the present moment. Look around. Is your room safe? Is there a cup of tea in your hand? Wonderful. Savor it. Live your life, not in dread of what might happen, but in gratitude for what is happening.

A Daily Practice for Peace

Here’s a little ritual to keep you centered:

• Spend five to ten minutes each day in stillness. Breathe deeply. Let go of fear, just for a few minutes.
• Ask, “What can I do today to help create my happiest, most peaceful life?”
• Trust the answer, whether it’s practical (“Buy batteries”) or self-sustaining (“Rest more today”).
• Rinse and repeat daily. 

This practice will build your trust in yourself and your ability to meet whatever comes next.

The Big Picture

Yes, the world is chaotic. Things are sliding, shifting, even unraveling. But we were built for this. With a clear mind, an open heart, and a supportive community, we can navigate whatever comes next—not with panic, but with purpose. And maybe a little magic.

You can read much, much more like this in my new book, Beyond Anxiety: Curiosity, Creativity, and Finding Your Life’s Purpose.