Being bothered” is the news. What used to be called the daily, up-to-date news is increasingly not about the world itself, but about all the ways that large numbers of people are bothered by changes in the world. Your first mindset improvement, therefore, is to ignore all the “bothered news.”
Dan Sullivan and Hamish MacDonald, Not Being Bothered
Have you ever found yourself feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or simply drained after watching or listening to the news? If so, you're not alone. In today's world, the news cycle is often dominated by sensational headlines, negative stories, and tales of tragedy and conflict. And all of this is multiplied and weaponised with video and audio designed to elicit emotional responses from you.
This is what Dan Sullivan and Hamish MacDonald call "bothered news." As they say, "Being bothered is the news." But, just because the news is full of negativity, doesn't mean that you have to be.
The good news is that there is a way to limit the negative impact of "bothered news" on your life. By taking a proactive approach to your news consumption, you can reduce its negative impact and stay informed without sacrificing your mental well-being. And, the mainstream "Narrative" will have less power over you. And, if you apply a little critical thinking you might not get caught up in bashing the latest conspiracy theory that turns out to be true or hoax that turns out to be false, even though the "experts" have spoken and will never change their positions.
Here's a mantra to help you do just this:
I watch no real time news.
I listen to no real time news.
My news intake is proactive not reactive.
I set clear intentions when I approach news sources.
I quickly survey headlines formulating questions.
I carefully read articles I select for answers to those questions.
I reduce the impact of "bothered news" by engaging in contemplative walking, meaningful conversation, and mindful journaling.
By limiting our exposure to real-time news and focusing on written news sources, we are reducing the negative impact that sensational and "bothered" news can have on our mental well-being. Video and audio news engages our senses and is designed to provoke an emotional response in us. By setting clear intentions and carefully choosing the news sources we read not watch or listen to, we can ensure that we are receiving accurate and relevant information without our senses and emotions being manipulated. We are much more effective at objectively processing information that is beneficial to and improves our understanding of the world when we read it rather than watch or listen to it.
Additionally, engaging in contemplative walking, meaningful conversation, mindful journaling practices can help us process and digest the news we do read, while also reducing the negative effects of the news. For example, taking a contemplative walk can help you to clear your mind, reflect on your thoughts and feelings, and find perspective. Engaging in meaningful conversation with others can help you to process the news and understand different perspectives, while also fostering connection and community. Mindful journaling can also be a helpful tool for processing and expressing your thoughts and feelings, while also promoting self-awareness and creativity.
In conclusion, limiting the impact of "bothered news" on your life is possible. By taking a proactive approach to your news consumption, setting clear intentions, choosing your news sources carefully, and engaging in activities that promote well-being and perspective, you can stay informed while preserving your peace of mind and mental well-being.
So, go ahead and take control of your news consumption today, and experience the benefits of a more positive and balanced perspective on the world.
