Embrace Habits, Activity, and Connection to Combat Chaos

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Conditions of worth can trap individuals in a cycle of comparison, consumption, and competition, leading to diminished joy and increased stress—particularly during multiple crises like social upheaval and pandemics. Effective coping strategies include establishing solid habits to minimize decisional fatigue in an uncertain environment, thus providing structure and stability. Regular physical activity boosts positive brain chemistry, enhancing overall well-being. Additionally, fostering consistent connections with even one individual can provide necessary support and grounding amidst chaos.

“What am I doing with my life? Where am I going?” During this isolated time, many of us are having to readjust our identities because our visions for what life was supposed to look like completely shifted -- and so perhaps has the locus of our self-worth. Dr. Meag-gan O'Reilly is a licensed Staff Psychologist at Stanford University's Counseling and Psychological Services. In this episode, she offers helpful frameworks for cultivating a life --and society-- that can better recognize the basic intrinsic value of each person. Dr. O’Reilly’s research interests focus on social class, college student mental health, resilience, and multicultural identities, particularly gender and ethnicity. She also operates a private practice in downtown Palo Alto, Inherent Value Psychology, in which she provides clinical services to Silicon Valley professionals. To learn more about "How to Be a Better Human," host Chris Duffy, or find footnotes and additional resources, please visit: go.ted.com/betterhuman