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 caught with my “proverbial drawers down”.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 feverishly, 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. And you should too.
Here are a few ways I accomplish this and maintain my optimism, during challenging times.
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 the girls at the popular talk show, “The View.” You may not always agree with Elizabeth's perspective, but you will be informed, entertained, and
in-the-know.
Health and Fitness topics
"The doctor's in". Handled by medical practitioners with a great deal of expertise and warm bedside manners, is a daily 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 Yahoo's Home Page for "Trending" topics on a variety of themes.
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.
Agree or disagree? How do you feel about watching the news?
Image: Freedigitalphotos.net
Good tips, thanks! I don't watch the news often either, for many of the same reasons. My home page on my browser is Yahoo, and that keeps me up to date on headlines, weather, sports, entertainment, etc. I glance at it regularly through the day and if there's any breaking news, I can check it out right away. It's easier to keep informed in a moderated manner. :)
ReplyDeleteKaren,
ReplyDeleteWe're on the same page here. Thanks so much for stopping by and starting us off. :-)
Jen, We watch the news a couple of times a day and, really, that's enough to get the gist of anything new that's going on in the world. There's always a place to find out more if we need it to inform whatever piece of writing we're working on. Timely post!
ReplyDeleteA couple of times a day? Wow, you're brave! :-) Thanks for chiming in here.
DeleteI prefer following the major news networks, and more independent news sources on twitter! That way I can scan the headlines and decide which stories I want to click and read. Social media wins with me because I can customize and be selective, and I find stories that are unique and compelling that wouldn't be reported on through traditional media.
ReplyDeleteSarah,
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing this; I never thought of following on Twitter and social media. Interesting...
I prefer to - make - News..., :)
ReplyDeleteSince I don't write new posts that frequently, my posts are pretty - Exclusive -, Today I actually did write a Crispy Fresh New Blogpost
for my Writers Blog,
So How is that for a Scoop?
H.P.,
ReplyDeleteThnaks for sharing--as always...)
Oops, I goofed. That should read "Thanks". LOL
DeleteI can only take the blood and guts and tug at your heart stories once a day. I like Twitter and Yahoo news feed, and I do like the View. I prefer writing to listening to blah-blah-blah. Your listed sources are good resources. Thanks wise woman.
ReplyDeleteLinda,
DeleteIt takes a "wise woman" to know one! :-) Loved hearing from you on this.