After an election, it’s natural for emotions to be high.

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It’s been a little more than a week since the election and it’s likely that you’ve got a strong opinion on the outcome.

Most people take these strong emotions to their echo chamber (social media, friends, TV, etc.) looking for a friendly face to celebrate or commiserate.

The boost of dopamine we get from these connections makes us feel better… for about 20 minutes.

Once the “high” wears off, we go searching for the next article/post that reinforces our beliefs.

This addiction has a downside — instead of treating others with any sort of respect, we lump people into categories to be mocked.

Over time, this contempt turns disagreement over an issue into rage at wondering how someone could possibly hold such an opinion. 

This week, instead of adding fuel to the fire, step away from your echo chamber.

Remember that every one of us is a unique mixture of experiences and culture, looking to do our very best with the resources at our disposal.

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—CJ McClanahan

Speaker | Advisor | Recovering Overachiever

CJ McClanahan