Last night during a meeting, one of my friends shared how she controls her anger and depression. She limits the amount of time she watches the news.
She admits it’s a selfish act. But it helps her keep her sanity. As she shared her thoughts, I watched the faces of those around us.
Most people were appalled by doing such a thing, especially with the recent tragedy of the school shooting. I came to her defense and supported what she was doing as a normal instinct for self-preservation.
We are all impacted by bad news, whether it’s national news or personal crisis. And it’s easy to become consumed by it.
But life goes on and we need to move forward in spite of the bad news. We need to control our anger and depression.
By limiting the amount of time you watch news or even scroll through social media helps you control your anger or depression. It’s a way to limit the negative talk and keep being hopeful when everything around appears bleak. It’s self-preservation.
Some may think that’s a selfish attitude. But isn’t it okay to be selfish sometimes? We are all limited in what we can do when something bad occurs.
I’m reminded of one of my favorite books, Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom. The main character is old and dying. Instead of feeling sorry for himself all day, he limits the amount of time he sulks. He gives himself a certain amount of time each morning to feel sorry for himself. Then he continues his day as if everything is normal.
It’s not sticking your head in the sand because you are aware of the bad news. And it’s not that you’re insensitive to the situation. It’s just a way to cope with staying positive. It’s self-preservation.
Before you criticize this act, try it for a day. Limit how much time you spend watching the news and scrolling through social media. Take note of your mood. Do you feel less angry or less depressed?
While it’s important to know what’s going on, sometimes it’s better for your mental health to limit how much negative information you hear. Self-preservation is key to controlling anger and depression.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Niv Persaud, CFP®, CDFA™, CRPC®, is the Founder of Transition Planning & Guidance, LLC. Life is more than money. It’s about living the lifestyle you want and can afford. For that reason, Niv consults with clients on money, life, and work. Her approach capitalizes on techniques she learned throughout her career, including as a management consultant, executive recruiter, and financial advisor. Her services include spending plan, financial plan, divorce financial review, life strategy, and professional progression. Niv actively gives back to her community through her volunteer efforts. She believes in living life to the fullest by cherishing friendships, enjoying the beauty of nature and laughing often — even at herself. Her favorite quote is by Erma Bombeck, “When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left and could say ‘I used everything you gave me’.”