The News Diet: Why Less Can Be More
The constant noise of news through television, social media, and subscriptions has led us to believe that being updated 24/7 is not only essential but also an indication of responsible citizenship. Staying informed about current events has become a daily ritual for many, however, here’s a perspective that challenges this notion: you don’t need to read or watch the news every day.
.png)
Here are a few reasons why you might consider dialling down your daily news consumption in favour of a more mindful approach to information intake:
- Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Consuming a constant stream of news, often filled with negative or distressing stories, can elevate stress and anxiety levels. Mindfulness encourages us to step back from this cycle and focus on what’s happening in our immediate surroundings, helping to reduce the emotional toll of constant news exposure.
- Escaping the Cycle of Helplessness: One common sentiment among news consumers is a feeling of helplessness. The news portray a world filled with problems and crises, but it often doesn’t inspire action or empowerment. Mindfulness encourages us to focus on what we can control and change, fostering a sense of agency in our lives. It reminds us that while we can’t control the world’s problems, we can control our reactions and responses to them.
- More Time Better Spent Elsewhere: The time spent scrolling through news feeds or watching news broadcasts can be redirected towards more productive and fulfilling activities. Whether it’s reading a book, going for a walk or listening to an inspiring podcast. Instead of succumbing to the endless news cycle, consider redirecting your valuable time toward activities that not only enrich your life but also stimulate problem-solving and creativity.
- Improved Quality of Information: Don’t feel comfortable with completely cutting off the news? We get it, bad habits can be hard to let go of. So why not consume news selectively rather than compulsively. By choosing to read or watch news when you genuinely want to, you can prioritize quality over quantity and engage with stories that truly matter to you.
So, how can you strike a balance between staying informed and nurturing mindfulness in your daily routine? Here are some practical tips:
- Curate Your Sources: Choose reliable news sources that provide well-researched and unbiased information. Avoid sensationalized or clickbait headlines that can trigger unnecessary stress.
- Set Boundaries: Avoid starting or ending your day with news. Instead, try to find a middle ground during your lunch break or a designated “news hour”. Remember the good ol’ days when the news only came on for an hour each day? Well those golden years are a thing of the past so if you want to practice some mindful consumption you need to set up some boundaries that designate specific time to get “caught up”.
- Stay Informed Sparingly: You don’t need to know everything about everything. Focus on topics that are genuinely important to you, your community, or your work. This targeted approach can help you stay informed without feeling overwhelmed.
- Practice Mindful Consumption: If a particular story is causing distress, consider whether it’s necessary to continue reading or watching. Choose to engage with news stories that align with your values and interests, and approach them with a critical and discerning eye.
Let’s wrap it up!
It’s essential to strike a balance between staying informed and maintaining your mental and emotional well-being. You don’t need to read or watch the news every day to be a responsible and engaged citizen. Instead, embrace the practice of mindfulness, allowing yourself to step back from the constant news cycle and find a more peaceful and centered way to navigate the world around you. By practicing mindful consumption of the news, you can gain a deeper understanding of the world without being overwhelmed by its negativity.
