All over the world, we humans are living in strange times.

It's an age of unease, of political unrest, fast-paced technological change, of economic struggle, even of arbitrary and damaging worldwide weather events.

It's an era where questionable individuals on the world stage have gained political power, and in so doing, threaten peace and stability worldwide.

Statesmanlike qualities of great intelligence and moral fibre have been superseded by ego, showmanship, oneupmanship, and a dog-eat-dog mentality, or so it seems.

What did Shirley Strachan of the Aussie band Skyhooks sing all those years ago?

“Horror movie right there on my TV, horror movie right there on my TV, horror movie and it's blown a fuse, horror movie, it's the six-thirty news, shockin' me right outa my brain.”

So what sort of coping strategies can we employ as individuals on a day-to-day basis, when it often seems humankind is taking a major leap backwards?

As individuals, we feel we can't do much to solve the world's ills, but every little bit of positivity can make a difference. And will. Here are some methods I am currently using, and finding to be immensely helpful.

Working continuously on developing your positivity and mental strength is a must.

Feeling good about yourself is a powerful tool. As someone once said, when the going gets tough, the tough get going.

Being kind, even if it's just a smile for a stranger, is uplifting. Kindness can cure so many ills.

Listen to music, read something engaging, watch a movie, go for a walk or a swim, or any form of exercise. Get those endorphins activated.

Work hard and to the best of your ability. And rest.

Be discerning with media and social media, and question everything you read and hear and see.

Some people choose to not use social media. Some people avoid watching the television news, and don't read newspapers or online news.

They turn off. They choose to live in their own bubble, and so they are uninformed. And that is their choice.

Don't accept as truth what you haven't researched well, and at the same time, listen to other people's opinions. Respect their point of view, even if you don't agree. We all have the right to an opinion.

Seek out fun. Laugh.

It's such a salve, such a good feeling to laugh, it's a tonic which makes everything seem that much lighter and brighter.

Endeavour to live life to the full, to live your best life, because every new day is a gift, and every new day will have something unique for you to discover and make the most of.