And he growls
Last weekend, I did a small media fast.
We don’t own a television, but I’m addicted to NPR. It’s constantly running in the background because I’m a news hound. I’ve always been interested in politics and what is happening in the world. But now, I’m starting to feel blahhh about the news. I think that’s partially due to my day job (I spend a portion of my day tracking news stories).
The blahhh feeling must be due to burnout. Let me be clear. It’s not job burnout, but information overload. It’s kind of like the law of diminishing returns.
I’ve experimented with media fasts previously and I’m trying to integrate tech simplicity into my daily life. The last few weeks I’ve curtailed the amount of news I listen to when I get home from work. Rather than turning on NPR, I’m reading books, writing or playing with the kittens. It’s been a good change for me.
Although, I’ve been surprised by Logan’s reaction to my need for a news break. Little did I know, the person I married 6 years ago has turned into a news junkie. When I started the fast, he resisted and made growling noises. We’ve also started to bicker more about when the radio should be on and it’s volume level.
If you’re planning on doing a media fast, I’d suggest talking with your partner before the process begins. Don’t make assumptions and set a few ground rules. It will make your fast more enjoyable and hopefully it will stop needless arguments. 
{ 8 comments… read them below or add one }
YES! I know exactly what you mean. Sometimes I just have to step away from news for a couple weeks. But my husband hates watching/listening to the news, he says its depressing, so no problems there. And sometimes, I must agree. I find if I am too attentive to what’s going on in the world, I do almost get depression-like symptoms lol. News broadcasting 24-7 doesn’t help that “Omg, I can’t take any more” feeling either.
My husband and I have differing opinions of just what is “news.” I listen to NPR most mornings and sometimes on the drive home. He, on the other hand, listens to and watches ESPN as much as possible. I find sports (other than Pittsburgh teams, of course!) meaningless and annoying. Some days we just turn it all off and concentrate on our family instead. Usually much better news to be found there anyway!
Hi my name is Logan and I’m addicted to news. I’ve been addicted to news for a few years now. Guess the growling was part of my withdrawals. I didn’t know a media fast could induce DTs! I think I seriously had the shakes.
~L
I love your idea of technology simplicity and need that like ASAP. I get caught up in everyone’s blogs and what technology they are looking towards, then going and trying it out, that I stray away from my initial goals.
I love the idea of a media fast. I have two degrees in media and have read some scary studies regarding media consumption. I think a lot of people seriously underestimate the impact that media consumption has on their world view.
I find that while my anxiety amps up considerably when I begin a media fast, eventually it falls well below the level it was at when I was actively and obsessively consuming news. Your post has inspired me to severely restrict my daily dose of politics. I’ve tried it before but, alas, I am addicted to politics and always return to my vice.
Good luck on your fast!
Thanks for leaving a comment and I love the name of your blog! Totally awesome.
I’m glad your taking a break from the wild, wild west of political news. Even if it’s only a short break, it will be worth it. Like you said, the media can impact our world view; in good and bad ways. Thanks so much for reading.
Hi tammy – I did the media fast thing from September last year for 7 months. Broke it for a day to watch the UK election results and went back into hiding. Important news finds you through friends – other than that, it’s just too much information about events you cannot influence. It all just makes you feel ill and stressed. And “the news” is just entertainment dressed up as important information. I’m staying on the fast – no TV, no newspapers and no news streams – it suits me fine; I’ve never been happier or less stressed! Love your blog!
@minimalmark – thanks for leaving a comment! Now that I’m working for myself I don’t have to monitor media coverage / political stuff so closely. I’m still paying attention to what’s going on in the world. But I’m not as tuned in…if that makes sense. And the result has been crazy. I’m less stressed and happier. It’s really amazing.
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