By: Jenniffer Barrette, CEO of Get Real About Books

The world feels like it’s on fire—figuratively and sometimes literally—and it’s easy to feel stuck in survival mode. Chaos seems to be the constant these days, whether it’s the continuous stream of bad news, the overwhelming flood of emails, or social media that’s just a pressure cooker of negativity and drama. If you’re clutching your coffee mug for dear life and wondering how to thrive in 2025 when everything feels like a dumpster fire, you’re not alone.

The reality is that navigating 2025 comes with its challenges. Rather than waiting for things to settle, it’s about finding ways to manage the uncertainty and focus on what you can control. Let’s take a closer look.

1. Ignore the Noise (Yes, That Includes Your Uncle’s Facebook Rants)

A helpful first step is recognizing what deserves your attention. With so much happening—from the news cycle to social media and everyday distractions—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But not everything requires a response.

Sometimes, the most radical thing you can do is hit “mute” on everything trying to drag you down. Protect your peace like it’s the last slice of pizza at a party—it’s precious. The world can be a dumpster fire, but you don’t have to roll around in it. By consciously choosing to tune out what doesn’t serve you, you create the mental space to focus on what matters.

2. Manifest, but Also Move Your Butt

Manifestation is actual, but here’s the thing: it’s not about sitting around and hoping for a good outcome. Visualization and positive thinking are powerful tools, but they must be backed up with action. If you want a better job, don’t just imagine it—start networking. If you write a book, get those words on paper. If you want to meet new people, stop pretending your couch is your soulmate.

Dreams don’t happen while you’re sitting still. They occur when you take action. Manifestation without movement is like planting seeds and expecting them to grow without watering them. You need both the vision and the hustle to make things happen.

3. Delegate the Unnecessary Tasks

We’ve been told we need to do it all, but the truth is, that’s a lie. You don’t have to handle every single task on your own. Thriving means knowing your limits and finding ways to make life easier. If meal prepping feels like a burden, consider ordering a meal kit. If cleaning drains your soul, find a service or trade tasks with a friend. If your inbox is a monster, get comfortable saying “No.”

Outsourcing isn’t laziness—it’s an investment in your sanity and energy. The time you free up by letting go of tasks that drain you may be spent on things that truly matter. By prioritizing your well-being and delegating the “stupid stuff,” you can focus on the things that bring you joy and fulfillment.

4. Laugh at the Absurdity of It All

If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that life is full of the unexpected—and it’s often hilarious in its absurdity. Thriving in chaos isn’t about waiting for things to settle down; it’s about learning to laugh at the madness.

You know what I mean: the Wi-Fi crashes right before an important meeting, the coffee spills when you’re late, and the endless delays. It’s all part of the weird, unpredictable adventure of life. But when you embrace the absurdity instead of getting frustrated, you can move through these moments more easily.

Sometimes, the ideal thing you can do is laugh and keep going. And hey, even the worst day is only 24 hours long. Take it one step at a time.

5. Embrace the Unapologetic ‘Main Character Energy’

This is your reminder: you are the star of your own life. Stop waiting for permission to live on your terms. Stop playing the sidekick in someone else’s story. The people who seem most content and fulfilled tend to shape their own lives actively. They’re the ones who make decisions based on what they want, not what’s expected of them by others.

Want to take that spontaneous trip? Do it. Want to make a career change? Go for it. Want to take up that new hobby? Don’t wait for the “perfect” time—start now. You don’t need anyone’s permission to chase your dreams. Your happiness is yours to create.

Ready to Thrive? Let’s Do This.

The truth is, thriving in 2025 won’t happen by accident. It’s a decision you make every day—to protect your peace, take action, ask for help when you need it, laugh at the chaos, and own your life unapologetically. The world might feel crazy, but you don’t have to be a passive bystander. You get to write your own story.

So, are you ready to make 2025 your year? It won’t be ideal, but it can be amazing. Step forward with intention, control what you can, and let the chaos roll off your back. After all, the only thing you can truly control is how you respond.

Here’s to thriving in 2025—no matter what the world throws at us. Let’s make it happen.

Disclaimer: The content of this article is for informational and motivational purposes only. It does not constitute professional advice in financial, medical, mental health, or other specialized fields. Readers should seek guidance from appropriate professionals before making significant decisions. The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated organizations.

Published by Stephanie M.