What’s in Your Emotional Go Bag? Tools for Resilience During Life’s Toughest Moments

The recent devastating wildfires in Los Angeles have captured national attention—and rightfully so. Just as residents prepare for physical emergencies with go bags, we can also prepare for emotional upheavals by building resilience and having mental tools ready when life takes unexpected turns. The destruction, the speed at which it spread, and the fallout have been heartbreaking. As stories emerge about communities rallying together, heartbreaking losses, and the stark contrast between how the wealthy and less privileged are coping, it’s clear that disasters don’t discriminate, but recovery often does. Price gouging, looting, and political finger-pointing have added even more weight to an already heavy situation.

Victoria DeSantis shares her story of hope after firefighters found her wedding ring in the rubble of her Altadena home, destroyed by the Eaton fire.

Courtesy of Victoria DeSantis

Yet, amid the chaos, I was struck by one recurring theme: the importance of a go bag. As evacuation orders rolled in, some people ran out with just the clothes on their backs. Others had an emergency bag ready—packed with essentials like food, water, clothing, and medications. And some had the foresight to grab irreplaceable items—legal documents, family heirlooms, or deeply personal keepsakes. One story that stood out was of a woman who returned to her burning home to retrieve her wedding ring—a small symbol of love that meant the world to her. Neighbors helped rescue pets, and the best of humanity shone through the darkness.

That got me thinking: what would be in your emotional or personal go bag for life's emergencies?

I'm not talking about physical items in the event of a fire or natural disaster. I'm talking about when life hits hard—a breakup, a mental health crisis, job loss, or any moment that shakes your foundation. What tools, resources, and comforts would you turn to for support and healing?

Here are a few things I think should be in every emotional go bag, especially for singles navigating the highs and lows of dating and relationships:

1. A Trusted Support Network: Do you have three people you can turn to in a crisis? Friends or family who offer different perspectives—someone who listens, someone who problem-solves, and someone who just gets it. If you can't think of those three people right away, it might be worth nurturing some of those connections now.

2. Mental Health Resources: What podcasts, books, or even TikTok accounts have helped you shift your mindset or overcome challenges? Keeping a short list of uplifting content creators or thought leaders can be a lifeline when you're struggling to find your way.

3. Comfort Rituals: What brings you comfort? Is it a spa day, a solo weekend trip, retail therapy, or simply curling up with your favorite blanket and a good book? Give yourself permission to indulge in self-care when you need it most.

4. Spiritual Practices: Whether it’s journaling, meditation, prayer, or practicing gratitude, having a spiritual or reflective outlet can ground you during times of chaos. Reconnecting with yourself can illuminate a path forward.

5. Reminders of Strength: Maybe it's a handwritten letter to yourself, reminding you of past challenges you've overcome. Or a photo that brings back a moment of pure joy. What physical or digital keepsakes remind you that you've survived before and can do it again?

As singles navigating dating, relationships, and life’s unpredictable moments, having this emotional go bag can be the difference between feeling lost and finding your way back to yourself. Just like a physical go bag prepares you for emergencies, an emotional go bag ensures you have the tools to weather life's emotional storms.

So, what’s in your emotional go bag? If you don’t have one yet, maybe it’s time to start packing.

Join the conversation: Share what's in your emotional go bag on Reddit, LinkedIn, or Instagram, and tag @SingletoShaadi or use #SingleToShaadi to connect with our community and build resilience together.

The wildfires have caused significant displacement, and there is an urgent need for food, shelter and emotional support for affected families. United Sikhs

If you're looking to support those affected by the recent wildfires in Los Angeles, consider donating to local South Asian organizations actively providing relief:

• United Sikhs: Covina Gurdwara (Sikh temple) is serving food & beverages to victims displaced by Los Angeles County’s devastating wildfires.  Donate here

• South Asian Network (SAN): Offering free therapy services to wildfire survivors in the Los Angeles community. Donations help continue these essential services. Donate here

• BAPS Charities: Collecting donations in coordination with local authorities, mutual aid organizations, and emergency response teams to ensure that the most needed aid is delivered where it is needed most. Donate here

• Masjid Al-Taqwa: Beloved Altadena mosque was burned down completely in the Eaton Fire but they are committed to restoring this generational place of worship. Donate here

Your contributions can make a meaningful impact in providing relief and support to those affected by these devastating events.