Whole-person Wellness Blog: Preparing for the future

Throughout 2025, we have discussed S.E.L.F in various spaces. If you need a refresher for this Sanctuary tool, it stands for Safety, Emotions, Loss and Future. For this month’s blog we will focus on the “F,” or Future, which fits nicely as we approach the new year. When using this tool, use the future to change trajectories, drawing on our imagination and creativity, and taking a moment to pause and remain present. For more information related to S.E.L.F, check out our Whole-Person Wellness website link, and review module 6: Sanctuary training modules. 

Let’s be honest, when we think of the future, it brings uncertainty that can be uncomfortable and induce anxiety. Where do we want to be? How will we arrive there? As I was thinking ahead to 2026, the word balance came to mind. How do we remain balanced in a space of uncertainty? How do we coexist with uncertainty, as well as the hope that lies ahead for us? How do we learn balance in a world filled with chaos and business that doesn’t encourage us to slow down?

1. As our culture is rooted in instant gratification, simply observe, notice the urgency or rush to “fix.”
   
   
2. Come back to your center. Even through moments of doubt and uncertainty, remind yourself: right now, I am safe. Sometime I repeat to myself, “one moment at a time,” to offer myself grace that everything doesn’t have to be done or have a solution today.
   
   
3. Build a toolbox of safety:
   
   Routines and rituals → provide stability, consistency, and meaning.
   Examples: morning walks and nightly journaling.
   
   Boundaries → protect your time and energy.
   Examples: learning to say no when you do not have space, and setting time blocks for social spaces and events.
   
   Connection → allows us to feel seen and heard, which can ground us in times of the unknown, providing comfort.
   Examples: spending quality time with loved ones.
   
   While uncertainty can be difficult to navigate, it also teaches us resilience and gives us a chance to open ourselves to a world of immense potential and hope.