Have you ever wondered what happens to your brain when you watch the news?
I’ve read and heard many successful leaders and motivational gurus say that they don’t watch the news. They simply don’t expose their mind to the negativity. I stopped watching the news, including on Facebook and Twitter, a month ago. I like watching the news, as I like to know what is going on in the world. But I know it affected me, as the shocking stories were the last thing I watched/heard before falling off to sleep and often the first thing I read when I woke up.
Since I’ve stopped watching the news I have definitely noticed a decrease in stress, I’m happier, and the funny thing is I am still able to keep current on important news. I do skim the headlines of the Wall Street Journal, but stay away from headlines I know will cause my thinking to stray towards negativity. I have come to realize that if it’s major news I’ll hear about it. From friends, clients, family, the radio (before I change the station)… there’s no lack of people wanting to talk about events happening right now.
I stopped watching the news and created new habits
I have not only reduced my news intake, which has led to a consistently better state of mind, but have also altered my pre sleep and wakeup routines. As I mentioned, I used to watch or read the news, turn it off and go to sleep. The negative news was the last thing I saw before sleep. By changing this habit I have been sleeping better, feel more rested in the morning, and have an overall more optimistic view of life.
Here is my new pre sleep routine:
- I read books or articles that will help with my coaching or are light and entertaining
- I review what I’m grateful for
- I read for 20 minutes from a motivational or inspirational book on my Kindle. Right now I’m reading “The Missing Link” by Sydney Banks
- I review my vision right before I go to sleep.
My new wakeup routine includes:
- Drinking a glass of fresh lemon water
- Stretching / yoga routine
- Walking 2 miles
- Reading or watching something training-related
Changing habits is not easy, but can be very powerful. By reducing my news consumption and changing my pre sleep, and wake up habits I have been able to improve my life significantly. Try it out for yourself!
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