s a peacebuilder, I am part of a community dedicated to resolving conflicts and healing post–conflict communities. This demanding profession often challenges our mental health. Prioritizing our well-being is essential to our mission, especially in today’s fast–moving world, where rapid changes bring new worries. We face numerous issues simultaneously, from the dangers of AI and sudden U.S. aid cuts affecting global agencies and organizations to the growing threat of extreme weather, a diet full of tiny plastics, and rising cybercrimes.
We’re also witnessing a rise in authoritarian regimes and militarism, with some powerful countries showcasing their nuclear weapons and deploying AI–powered drones in conflict zones. In many places today, building bomb shelters seems more practical than smart homes. These circumstances clutter our minds and undermine our sense of safety, impacting mental health. The question is how we can help the next generation not just to survive, but to thrive, in an AI-driven future. These lessons compiled from peacebuilders, who have focused on self–care, provide valuable insights for this challenge.
Racing into the future, at what cost?
Technology has improved our healthcare, education, entertainment, sustainability, and government efficiency. These advancements have helped us get closer to meeting the Sustainable Development Goals. But when progress moves too fast without care, it can also do harm. While it’s important to grow and adapt to the digital world, we can still learn from the slow, mindful way our ancestors lived—closer to nature and with deeper human connections.
How to slow down in a chaotic world
Set systems, not just goals. In our hyper–connected world, we chase ambitious goals fueled by constant pressure and caffeine, risking burnout. It’s crucial to prioritize purpose over mere productivity. Instead of seeking fame or trying to do everything, focus on what truly matters. Small, consistent actions each day can foster significant personal and professional growth. Establish systems that support your well-being rather than relentlessly pursuing constant achievement. By doing so, we inspire those around us—family, friends, colleagues—to redefine success and cultivate resilience within our communities.
Live mindfully, be healthy. Multitasking often leads to anxiety and burnout, so recognizing burnout is the first step to healing. Instead of ignoring it, face these challenges. While mindfulness may not resonate with everyone, consider incorporating practices that nurture your mind, body, and soul. like yoga, meditation, journaling, or creative activities. Holistic healing methods such as acupuncture, massage, or chiropractic care can also ease stress and tension. Mindful living not only grounds us but also strengthens our families and communities in navigating a chaotic world.
Opt for sustainability, embrace simplicity. Home–cooked meals and local produce nourish both individual and collective community members while supporting local farmers to thrive. Thrift shopping and repurposing items reduce waste and reflect a deeper commitment to caring for the planet. In a world of fast fashion and consumerism, these mindful choices strengthen local economies, build resilience, and nurture the ecosystems we all depend on, especially in uncertain times.
Withdraw, master the art of disappearing. You don’t need magic to vanish. Sometimes, stepping back from people, places, or online spaces is necessary. In a world fixated on validation, privacy, and your peace and energy. Detox, declutter, and disconnect from what drains you. Choose spaces where you’re valued, not just needed. This isn’t just self–care—it models healthy boundaries and inspires others to do the same.
Listen to nature’s rhythm: do less, achieve more. Across many ancient cultures, our ancestors lived in tune with nature—rising early, resting when needed, and following the body’s natural rhythm. This simple pace prevented burnout and nurtured balance. By slowing down and aligning with nature’s cycle, we ease stress, support our wellbeing, and contribute to community healing, climate care, and collective resilience.
Yield to reconnect, strengthen your spirituality. Whether religious or not, nurturing your inner life through nature retreats, quiet reflection, meditation, or prayer fosters grounding. In a noisy world, silence and solitude help you reconnect with yourself, with others, and with the greater world around you. When your energy is centered and grounded, you contribute to creating spaces of calm, empathy, and shared purpose, which is essential for resilient healing.
In a fast, AI–driven world, always rushing, slowing down is an act of strength. Real peace comes when we choose to pause, breathe deeper, and choose what truly matters. Mindful living isn’t about overnight change—it means making small, brave steps toward resetting your life. It’s not easy to break old habits, but it’s essential for your well-being and future generations. When we heal ourselves, we help heal our communities—and that, too, is peacebuilding.
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Slowing down in a fast–paced, AI–driven world
Image by Tony Cordaro from Pixabay
July 1, 2025
Today’s world isn’t just fast–paced, it is often frightening and overwhelming, challenging the mental wellbeing of people around the world. Peacebuilder Jamila–Aisha P. Sanguila brings lessons from her profession to help readers find calm amid the chaos and better support their wellbeing.
A
s a peacebuilder, I am part of a community dedicated to resolving conflicts and healing post–conflict communities. This demanding profession often challenges our mental health. Prioritizing our well-being is essential to our mission, especially in today’s fast–moving world, where rapid changes bring new worries. We face numerous issues simultaneously, from the dangers of AI and sudden U.S. aid cuts affecting global agencies and organizations to the growing threat of extreme weather, a diet full of tiny plastics, and rising cybercrimes.
We’re also witnessing a rise in authoritarian regimes and militarism, with some powerful countries showcasing their nuclear weapons and deploying AI–powered drones in conflict zones. In many places today, building bomb shelters seems more practical than smart homes. These circumstances clutter our minds and undermine our sense of safety, impacting mental health. The question is how we can help the next generation not just to survive, but to thrive, in an AI-driven future. These lessons compiled from peacebuilders, who have focused on self–care, provide valuable insights for this challenge.
Racing into the future, at what cost?
Technology has improved our healthcare, education, entertainment, sustainability, and government efficiency. These advancements have helped us get closer to meeting the Sustainable Development Goals. But when progress moves too fast without care, it can also do harm. While it’s important to grow and adapt to the digital world, we can still learn from the slow, mindful way our ancestors lived—closer to nature and with deeper human connections.
How to slow down in a chaotic world
Set systems, not just goals. In our hyper–connected world, we chase ambitious goals fueled by constant pressure and caffeine, risking burnout. It’s crucial to prioritize purpose over mere productivity. Instead of seeking fame or trying to do everything, focus on what truly matters. Small, consistent actions each day can foster significant personal and professional growth. Establish systems that support your well-being rather than relentlessly pursuing constant achievement. By doing so, we inspire those around us—family, friends, colleagues—to redefine success and cultivate resilience within our communities.
Live mindfully, be healthy. Multitasking often leads to anxiety and burnout, so recognizing burnout is the first step to healing. Instead of ignoring it, face these challenges. While mindfulness may not resonate with everyone, consider incorporating practices that nurture your mind, body, and soul. like yoga, meditation, journaling, or creative activities. Holistic healing methods such as acupuncture, massage, or chiropractic care can also ease stress and tension. Mindful living not only grounds us but also strengthens our families and communities in navigating a chaotic world.
Opt for sustainability, embrace simplicity. Home–cooked meals and local produce nourish both individual and collective community members while supporting local farmers to thrive. Thrift shopping and repurposing items reduce waste and reflect a deeper commitment to caring for the planet. In a world of fast fashion and consumerism, these mindful choices strengthen local economies, build resilience, and nurture the ecosystems we all depend on, especially in uncertain times.
Withdraw, master the art of disappearing. You don’t need magic to vanish. Sometimes, stepping back from people, places, or online spaces is necessary. In a world fixated on validation, privacy, and your peace and energy. Detox, declutter, and disconnect from what drains you. Choose spaces where you’re valued, not just needed. This isn’t just self–care—it models healthy boundaries and inspires others to do the same.
Listen to nature’s rhythm: do less, achieve more. Across many ancient cultures, our ancestors lived in tune with nature—rising early, resting when needed, and following the body’s natural rhythm. This simple pace prevented burnout and nurtured balance. By slowing down and aligning with nature’s cycle, we ease stress, support our wellbeing, and contribute to community healing, climate care, and collective resilience.
Yield to reconnect, strengthen your spirituality. Whether religious or not, nurturing your inner life through nature retreats, quiet reflection, meditation, or prayer fosters grounding. In a noisy world, silence and solitude help you reconnect with yourself, with others, and with the greater world around you. When your energy is centered and grounded, you contribute to creating spaces of calm, empathy, and shared purpose, which is essential for resilient healing.
In a fast, AI–driven world, always rushing, slowing down is an act of strength. Real peace comes when we choose to pause, breathe deeper, and choose what truly matters. Mindful living isn’t about overnight change—it means making small, brave steps toward resetting your life. It’s not easy to break old habits, but it’s essential for your well-being and future generations. When we heal ourselves, we help heal our communities—and that, too, is peacebuilding.
