Dr. Michael R. MacDonald
I love watching The Daily Show and sometimes even the other late night comedy shows. I have been a fan of Jon Stewart for a long time. He has come back to Comedy Central and has brought a crew of very funny co-hosts with him. Long live Jon Stewart.
But, even though I am laughing at the clever comedy, too much of it can make me irritable and bring me down. This is especially true if I watch different shows that focus on the same daily depressing events. The real danger comes with watching late night comedy shows, one after another – there is so much repetition.
And all of this can be addicting – just as the social media, YouTube and cable news algorithms strive for.
Repairing Your State of Mind
If media addiction has got you trapped, here are a few things to help.
The first step, of course, is to limit your exposure. Or as they say in health care, stop the bleeding.
This is very hard to do if your addiction has taken root in you. A timer might help, with maybe a 30 minute limit per night. So might making a plan with your spouse of partner.
A second strategy is to try and repair the damage to your mood and overall view of the world.
I like the idea of reparative reading (and viewing). I came across this idea in a book on art criticism, which I enjoyed. It was called Funny Weather: Art in an Emergency by Olivia Laing.
According to Laing, art changes how we see the world. It gives us new perspectives. She argues that art can be an antidote to our current negative times. I think engaging in artful activities can be rewarding, whether that be art projects, or building or repairing something around your home. This way you get to feel creative, useful and get off the couch.
Stories that lift us up can also be an antidote. I enjoy watching the television show, Sunday Morning on CBS. It features current events, popular culture and travel, as examples. Most importantly, it has a positive and fair-minded tone, even when covering serious world events.
I especially like the weekly segments on Sunday Morning by award-winning journalist Steve Hartman. These segments highlight how the actions of everyday people can help others in need. Hartman also produces a show, Kindness 101, with inspiring stories about goodness, kindness and compassion.
Optimism is a Precious Commodity
It is hard to find much optimism in today’s media offerings. But, whenever and wherever we can find even a little, we should cherish it, shine a light on it and keep the fire burning.
Laughter is good medicine, but hope and optimism are even better. As I have written about in a recent post, optimism can help you attain a healthier, happier and more resilient life. Who wouldn’t want more of that.
Dr. Daniel Kahneman said it well, “If you are allowed one wish for your child, seriously consider wishing him or her optimism”.
Until next time, let our warm hearts soar!
Michael
michael@aWarmHeart.ca
And thank you for caring that little bit extra – it really makes a big difference.