The minds of those living in the 21st century are always “on.” Social media and the 24/7 news cycle make it hard to focus on the present moment and the people and things around you. This is even more true with 2024 being an election year and the constant inundation of news. Don’t let feelings of FOMO fool you; there’s joy to be had in solitude and not always being in the know. Here are five ways to disconnect from the 24/7 news cycle.
Create a Window of Time to Consume the News
Social media never stops. It’s just a scroll away morning, noon or night. Instead of mindlessly reading headlines and the latest gossip, set aside designated times each day to get updated on the latest news.
Set boundaries of how often and how long you will read and scroll the headlines. This might mean no scrolling after work hours or only reading the news in the morning. Perhaps, before logging into your work laptop, each morning give yourself 15 to 30 minutes to visit your favorite media outlets and get caught up on what’s going on in the world. Create a rhythm that works best for you.
Read Physical Newspapers
This might sound crazy, but there are still physical newspapers available in 2024. TikToker, Kelsey Russell, is leading the way for increased media literacy amongst Gen Z. Russell, who has gained nearly 100,000 followers on TikTok, connects with younger audiences by using her platform to read articles from various newspapers across subject matters. She has made being an #informedhottie cool and even helped publications increase online and print subscriptions.
Like Russell proves on her TikTok account, it’s important to not just get your news from a social media algorithm. Take time to invest time and money in news outlets and educate yourself about what is going on in the world. Also, reading a physical newspaper goes hand-in-hand with creating designated time to consume the news in your daily routine.
Engage in Human Connection
Another great way to disconnect from the 24/7 news cycle is to engage with people. In the digital age, you interact more with your phones than real-life human beings. Be intentional with your time, and set up quality time with your people.
Don’t overthink it. This can be as simple as a sunset walk, a coffee date or a run to the grocery store together. Get some IRL time with friends and get off your phone.
Put Your Phone on Sleep Mode
One way to put a cap on how much screen time you’re using, put time limits on your phone. You can set your phone to sleep mode from the nighttime through the morning, which is the ideal time for your eyes and mind to rest. You can even download apps that will track and help you limit your time on social media apps, such as ClearSpace, AppBlock and Freedom.
Get Outside
Simple but underrated, to get off your phone and disconnect from the chaos on the internet, get outside. Remember the time as a kid when your parents made you and the other kids go outside and play. Embrace that spirit as an adult. Get outside in nature for a jog, a hike, a walk around the park or to play with your kids.