It’s Been a Long Four Years: Here’s How to Reset and Embrace the Exciting Next Four
By Dawn Sturmon
It’s been a minute — or, let’s be honest, a long 1,536 days. The last four years have felt like wading through quicksand: frustrating, messy, and never-ending. But here’s the good news — we’re on the other side. A new chapter of American prosperity is beginning, and with it comes a cosmic reset button.
This isn’t just another four-year term; it’s a chance to rediscover optimism, rebuild connections, and embrace the future we’ve worked so hard to secure. So, let’s shake off the funk, seize the moment, and make the most of what’s ahead.
STEP 1: ACCEPT THE GRIEF AND LET IT GO
First, let’s address the elephant in the room — 2020 left a mark. Whether it was the election outcome, the government pandemic response, or just the general chaos of the past four years, the sting is real. But here’s the thing about grief: it demands to be felt, processed, and then politely shown the door.
We’ve grieved, we’ve wallowed, and now it’s time to move forward. This is the moment to channel true American resilience and take the lessons we’ve learned to build a better future. As Melania Trump wisely said, “You always need to bounce back stronger and wiser from setbacks.” Let this be your rallying cry: the past doesn’t define us — our comeback does. It’s time to bounce.
STEP 2: EMBRACE OPTIMISM AND POSITIVITY LIKE IT’S YOUR JOB
Optimism isn’t just a fleeting feeling — it’s the reward for the hard work, prayers, and perseverance that brought us to this moment. After everything we’ve endured, it’s time to savor the hope and opportunity of the next four years we’ve fought so hard for.
Start small. Think of optimism as your new power blazer — sharp and ready to make a statement. Curate your Instagram feed to reflect the energy you want to live in (goodbye, endless debates and negativity; hello, uplifting messages and unapologetic patriotism).
After years in survival mode, positivity has become an endangered species. But here’s the secret: it doesn’t have to be a grand gesture. Positivity often hides in the simplest things. Give yourself grace and channel your inner Ivanka Trump, who approaches life with love and gratitude. Plan a picnic in the park, take a sunset walk, bake cookies just because, or finally take that pottery class you’ve bookmarked six times.
Leaning into these small but meaningful moments creates a ripple effect that lifts your spirit — and those around you.
STEP 3: TAKE ACTION, BIG OR SMALL
There’s something wildly satisfying about doing instead of stewing. For too long, we’ve been stuck in mental loops, rehashing the past and dwelling on the frustrations of the last four years. It’s time to redirect that energy into tangible, positive, pro-America action that keeps the momentum alive — not just for today, but for the pivotal elections of 2026 and 2028.
Start local. Whether it’s attending town hall meetings, mentoring the next generation, supporting school board candidates who reflect your values, or volunteering on a campaign, grassroots efforts make a difference. And don’t stop there — find ways to connect with your community in ways that inspire and uplift. Launch that blog or podcast you’ve been brainstorming, and let your voice become a beacon of optimism and determination.
Every small step contributes to a larger movement. By taking action, you’re not just shaping a brighter future — you’re strengthening the foundation for a more united and resilient America.
STEP 4: REDEFINE CONNECTION (WHERE WORTHY)
After four years of polarizing headlines and social media battles that make The Hunger Games look tame, it’s time to rebuild bridges — selectively, of course. Not all connections are worth resuscitating (looking at you, Facebook comment warriors).
But for the relationships that matter, let’s bring back the art of real-life, face-to-face conversations. Reconnect with a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while — the one you miss even though you disagreed during 2020. Connection isn’t about ideological alignment; it’s about mutual respect and shared humanity. Because let’s be real: no one ever felt a spark of joy from doomscrolling and fighting in the comment section.
STEP 5: MANIFEST YOUR OWN MAR-A-LAGO
Here’s where we get aspirational. Whether or not you’ve dreamed of a grand escape, this is about creating your personal retreat — a place of escape, refinement, and unapologetic joy. What’s your personal Mar-a-Lago?
It could be as simple as transforming your living space into a sanctuary or as bold as planning a trip that’s been on your vision board for years. Start with realistic goals: reorganize a room to make it more functional and inviting, refresh your bedroom with soft new bedding or a cozy throw, or carve out a reading nook with your favorite books. Declutter your workspace for a sense of clarity, brighten your surroundings with fresh flowers, or treat yourself to a quiet evening with a warm cup of tea and a good book. Even the smallest changes can transform your everyday space into a personal oasis.
THE TAKEAWAY
If the past four years have taught us anything, it’s that resilience is our superpower. We’ve been knocked down, shaken up, lied to, and dragged through the mud — but here we are, ready to embrace what’s next. This is our moment to step boldly into the future with grace, optimism, and pride. Let’s make the next four years a testament to strength, hope, and a brighter tomorrow. Together, let’s Make America Great Again.
A freelance writer, Dawn has crisscrossed the country in a unique path — from holding cue cards on Saturday Night Live to working on Super Bowl commercials. A lover of truth, interior design, french fries, and fashion, you can find her dressed in a hoodie or for the Met Gala — there’s no in-between.