informed, oblivious, or in between?
How do you stay informed about what is happening in the world, without risking over-consumption? I have not figured this out.
Currently, I am erring on the side of uninformed with the assumption that if there is anything I really need to know it will filter through my self-imposed information barriers and come to my attention. Perhaps, via one of those annoying emergency phone alerts. This assumes that I am not living off-grid in a cave in the mountains (something I consider from time to time).
Lately, I've spent too much time being stressed, angry and frustrated by things I am unable to control.
As a master of the obvious, I have figured out the following:
Social media is not helpful in this balancing act. Duh. Unless you have an extremely well-curated feed (a challenge of its own), you will be bombarded with some of the worst messages/images that humanity has to offer. For me, the humor and beauty shared is not enough to offset the ugly.
Mainstream news is too much and, of course, focuses on controversy and negativity.
My iPhone, without some significant modification, is a big temptation to over-consume. Last week I deleted all of my social media, blocked news on Safari, and created a home screen with only a few communication and productivity apps (i.e. calendar, reminders). I'm willing to go further, if necessary.
So, where does that leave us for staying engaged and informed without the perseveration and anger that comes with traditional sources of media?
I'm not sure. Magazines? Print newspapers? Email newsletters? Word of mouth? Head in the sand?
Hmm. What works for you?