How to Get the "Scoop" When you Have an Aversion to the News!

It simply boggles my mom's brain, that as a “professional” writer and columnist, I rarely watch the news. She often kids that if the world were coming to an end, or the country were on alert for some type of disaster or attack, I would truly be in a serious pickle!

Conversely, she watches it religiously, about 2-3 times a day.
For me it's definitely an “acquired taste.” I don't dig digesting daily news accounts of crimes and doom and gloom. Not to mention, the reporting mantra of “if it bleeds it leads”, speaks to how we as a society are often drawn to sensationalism and “train wreck” viewing.

I've found too, that as your typical creative artist type, I'm much too sensitive to disengage.
Whenever I do tune in, the heartbreaking stories and graphic images often bring me to tears, or makes me want to donate money to questionable causes, or pray, or long for former years and simpler times. (I'm betting it's probably the same for you too).

Still, as a person who's paid regularly to be “informed” and expressive on a variety of topics and themes, I must stay in the know.

Here are a few ways I accomplish this and maintain my optimism, and you can too.
Read on as this journalist “reveals her sources”.

For “feel good” stories---I love watching Good Morning America, (thanks mom) for their reporting balance. You'll be exposed to human interests stories like an eighty-year old returning to college to get her first degree. Or see profiles of “accidental entrepreneurs” living their dreams. It's a great way to start the day.

Celebrity Gossip---Want the latest on Mel Gibson's melt down? Curious about Kate plus eight? Eager to find out who's hot and who's not at the box office? You'll want to touch base with Barbara Walters and the girls at the popular talk show, “The View.” You may not always agree with Elizabeth's perspective, but you will be informed and entertained.

Health and Fitness topics are handled by medical practitioners with a great deal of expertise and warm bedside manners, daily at a show aptly titled “The Doctors”. Produced by Dr. Phil's son, it covers a variety of tips and timely reports on how to eat better, look younger, and realize the benefits of preventative maintenance. Get the updates on scientific studies and medical advancements too.

Fashionista Finds---If your focus is helping women to dress for success for less, or giving the 4-1-1- on new signature fragrances by Beyonce or Elizabeth Taylor, check out Oprah, or the program “Mirror Mirror”. Consider them the “go-to-gurus” for looking good.

Word to the wise--As times and channels may differ, depending upon your viewing area, you'll want to check your local listings for details.


Don't let an aversion to watching the news keep you in the dark about events of the day.
After all, the more you learn, the more you'll earn. Just be creative and follow these often overlooked leads.


What's your take on this topic?


Image Credit: Salvatore Vuono