More and more we are hearing about the problems we face as people, as countries and as a planet. I want to use this page to share things I personally find helpful when these problems seem overwhelming. This is not meant to be preachy or to encourage anyone to follow any particular ideology! Try doing some of these things and notice if your perspective changes.

• Make your art a priority. Engage with your passion on a daily basis - even if it for 15 minutes. Don't put it off until other things are accomplished.


• Identify the most balanced news sources you can. Many television news programs use sensationalism to keep you watching. When "experts" make frightening doom-and-gloom forecasts, try using print and online sources to get the full picture without all the hype. I like BBC news online.


• Support positive change. You can volunteer or send contributions—even small ones— to those who are actively working for the positive changes that you would like to see in the world. Some I support: Charity: Water, Mercy Corps, Amnesty International, and Reverend Billy and the Church of Stop Shopping.


• Green your life. Make a regular time—it can be 30 minutes a week or even less—that you devote to eliminating paper bills, stopping your junk mail, switching to renewable energy through your utility company, canceling paper subscriptions to read online instead, or any of hundreds of things. Websites that will give you plenty of ideas include WeCanSolveIt and Planet Green.


• Take the absolute best care of yourself that you can. Stay current with your healthcare. Strive to sleep and eat well. Explore the positive effects that exercise, sports, yoga, martial arts, or meditation could have for you.


• Take responsibility for your finances. No matter your circumstances: Be accountable; know where everything is going; find ways to budget and save; free yourself of debt; and, get the most use, value, and satisfaction from your money. Recommended: The Money Book for the Young, Fabulous and Broke by Suze Orman.


• Build productive routines. Read my article Why Flylady is Great for Actors for an introduction to Marla Cilley’s wonderful free system for managing your life.


• Enjoy your life now. Make regular time for family and friends, and for having fun.


• Get involved in your community. Connect with others who share your concerns and ideals.


• Seek out inspiration and role models. Read, watch or listen to or about the work of other artists, or of people who are realizing their visions and dreams in any fields.