The 2020s have felt like an out-of-control rollercoaster ride—wild, unpredictable, and at times downright terrifying. For many, it’s been a surreal blur of global pandemics, social unrest, economic uncertainty, and a creeping sense that the world is being run by psychopathic elites. And while the dawn of a new year often brings hope, this time around, a sense of trepidation seems to linger for many.

We’re now over halfway through the decade, and it’s hard to ignore the toll these years have taken. The lockdowns of 2020 left deep scars, some of which are only now being understood. People lost loved ones, jobs, routines, and a sense of security. For others, the trauma was less direct but no less impactful—the isolation, the fear, and the uncertainty left lasting marks. The world hasn’t felt “normal” since, and the rollercoaster keeps climbing, with no clear end in sight.

But here’s the thing about time: it doesn’t stop. It marches on, indifferent to our fears, doubts, or exhaustion. The only control we have is how we choose to see and live in this world. You can choose to focus on the darkness—the chaos, the evil, the overwhelming negativity—or you can look for the beauty, the hope, and the renewal that is still here if you seek it.

Reframing Your Mindset for the New Year

Something kind of amazing happens when you place your faith in Jesus. Your troubles, fears, and doubts don’t just melt away like snow in spring. Life is still hard. The world is still messy. But what you gain is something deeper: the knowledge that there is something more, something better, something eternal that gives meaning to the chaos.

Trusting in God doesn’t remove the obstacles in your life, but it reframes them. It shifts your perspective from hopelessness to hope, from despair to determination, and from fear to faith. It reminds you that while the world feels like it’s spinning out of control, God is still sovereign.

In a world that’s been programmed to focus on the negative, it’s a radical act to reframe your mindset. But this shift is crucial. Many people are so consumed by the chaos that they’ve stopped seeing the good. They’ve stopped noticing the small acts of kindness, the beauty of creation, or the quiet moments where God is still speaking.

Acknowledge the Trauma

It’s okay to admit that the last few years have been hard. The collective trauma of COVID-19, the lockdowns, and the constant barrage of bad news have left many of us feeling burnt out and broken. Acknowledging this is the first step toward healing. You’re not weak for feeling this way—you’re human.

Psychologists are just beginning to unpack the long-term effects of the pandemic on our mental health. Many people are grappling with anxiety, depression, and a sense of disconnection they’ve never experienced before. It’s important to give yourself grace as you process these feelings and seek support when you need it.

Resolve to Stay Open

As we step into another year, resolve to keep an open dialogue with God. Let Him into your fears, your doubts, and your struggles. He’s not afraid of your questions or your pain.

At the same time, stay open to new opportunities. The world is still full of possibilities, even in the chaos. Look for ways to grow, connect, and serve others. Seek out the good in people and in your circumstances.

Final Thoughts

The 2020s may feel like an out-of-control rollercoaster ride, but you don’t have to let the fear of what’s ahead derail you. Take a moment to pause, breathe, and reframe your mindset. Look for the beauty amidst the chaos, and remember that even in the darkest moments, God is with you.

Trusting Him doesn’t guarantee an easy ride, but it does give you the strength to hold on, no matter how wild the journey gets.