I’m trying something new, so maybe this bit is more a reminder to self. You are welcome to try it too if you like. I’ve decided I am not reading the news first thing in the morning anymore. Instead, I will choose to put something more positive in my brain first.
For years, I did the Tim Ferris method: don’t read any news at all. If something is important, someone else will tell you. There’s a theory that you can’t really change anything that’s in the news, so best to not focus on it. There is some truth in that idea, but it’s fatalistic. I don’t like the idea of not having any awareness of current events, so I’ve since shifted away from this.
It is good to be semi informed, to generally know about what is happening in the world. Maybe though, we don’t need to know about that hurricane or riot first thing in the morning. Certainly with most of our news outlets, there is an ongoing cycle of wars, storms, and protests that is inherently negative. Why? Because, let’s be honest – negative news sells and is pretty addictive.
If we aren’t careful, our mindset can quickly shift toward negativity. It sends our day off in a direction of defensiveness, cynicism and non collaboration. Not great.
By not consuming news first thing and instead focusing on positive content, I quickly noticed the change. I was less prone to being reactive, and warmer to everyone around me. It set me up to do better work.
So here is the suggestion – before the news, watch a TED talk. I’m not saying to not read the news. I’m just saying put something brain slightly more nutritious in your head before the other addictive news stuff. We choose to eat protein in the morning instead of a donut because it is good for us. Similarly, we can consume some better content for our brains that gets us ready for the day.
TED talks are often positive, usually engaging, and you always learn something. Many of them even have actionable takeaways or further places to learn if the topic connects with you.
It doesn’t even have to be a TED talk. Read something you are curious about. Watch a video on something that excites you. Just take in something that will cause you to grow, learn, or be inspired. Intentional positive action!
To me, this feels like a much better way to start my day. First thing, I create a more positive foundation. Then, I can flip through the news headlines if I want to go down that rabbit hole. The more positive energy we can squeeze into the corners of our day will pay dividends. It’s always a good place to start and operate from.
If we can start our days in a more positive place, we will build and lead in a better way. We will find stronger and more creative solutions to the challenges that will inevitably find their way to us.
Here are some great TED talks if you haven’t watched lately or want to try some out:
nate funaro 