Chaos has a way of sneaking in when we least expect it. Sometimes it’s the big storms—emergencies, illnesses, or caregiving crises. Other times it’s the everyday interruptions that pile up until they feel overwhelming. If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably asked yourself: How am I supposed to stay on track when life keeps derailing me?

The truth is, you can’t always control the chaos. But you can control how you respond to it. Here are a few practices that help me stay grounded and moving forward, even when life feels messy.

1. Anchor Yourself with Small Wins

When chaos hits, your big goals might feel impossible. That’s when I focus on the smallest possible step forward: a single page edited, one photo uploaded, one email drafted. Tiny wins add up—and they remind me that progress is still possible.

2. Create “Non-Negotiables”

I call these my anchors. For me, it’s prayer, journaling, and movement (even if it’s just 10 minutes of stretching). They don’t take much time, but they reset my mind and body so I can face the day with more strength.

3. Protect Your Health Like It’s Part of the Plan (Because It Is)

Caregiving and creating both demand energy. Living a toxin-free lifestyle, eating clean, and prioritizing rest aren’t luxuries for me—they’re survival strategies. When I take care of me, I’m better equipped to take care of others and keep creating.

4. Be Honest About Time-Wasters

It’s so easy to lose 30 minutes scrolling mindlessly or binging a show. Sometimes that’s okay—if your body truly needs rest, give yourself permission to take it. But often, those minutes slip by without making you feel any better. Imagine what else you could do in that same half hour: brainstorm an idea, step outside for fresh air, or even just sit with a cup of tea and breathe. The point isn’t to hustle harder—it’s to be intentional.

5. Accept the Messy Middle

Staying on track doesn’t mean the road will be smooth. Some days it looks like juggling edits in the ER waiting room. Other days it looks like giving yourself permission to rest so you can come back stronger tomorrow. The messy middle is still part of the journey.

6. Keep Purpose in Sight

When everything feels like too much, I ask myself: Why did I start this? For me, it’s my family, my faith, and the caregivers I hope my story will encourage. Remembering your “why” is what keeps you moving forward, even if it’s at a slower pace.

Final Thoughts

Staying on track in chaos isn’t about perfect discipline or a flawless plan. It’s about showing up, even in small ways, and trusting that those little steps add up.

So next time chaos tries to take the wheel, pause before you grab your phone to scroll or hit “play next episode.” Ask yourself: Do I need rest right now, or am I just numbing out? If it’s rest—take it, guilt-free. If not, take that time back and use it with purpose.

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