We are currently in a wash of generational change, spiritual chaos, economic teetering, environmental loss, national polarization, and technological disruption. And with each crisis, we have to remember something important: this is exactly the medicine we need.

Your ultimate power in this world is understanding that your time here is temporary. We should undoubtedly do good in this world, but if we don’t change the world, that’s okay. The world is hurtling toward a chaotic future. I’m scared–and others are too. Luckily, there are solutions for dealing with chaos.

First, you need a meditation practice. Start building it now. It’s going to be a sustaining life force for the next few decades, as yet-to-be-invented technology changes our world in fundamental ways. If you exist, you can always come back to your breath. Meditation is insurance against chaos; it doesn’t stop the chaos from happening, but it gives you comfort in knowing you can always rebuild.

Second, you need to meditate on impermanence. When you do this, you realize that anything you have is a blessing because it’s a blessing to be alive. You don’t need a mansion to cover your head from the rain. You don’t need a French three-course meal to fill your belly. You are here for a short time, as permanent as a raindrop on a window. You will go back to the earth, and that’s okay.

Don’t worry too much about the world. Try your best to help in your small way. The world will do what it will do, and everyone is along for the ride. If chaos comes, that’s fine too. Zen teaches us not to cling to anything, including life itself. When we let go, we tap into a reserve of strength that transcends reality. And that’s the best insurance a person can have.