You don’t have to stay on top of everything

“If you wish to improve, be content to appear clueless or stupid in extraneous matters — don’t wish to seem knowledgeable. And if some regard you as important, distrust yourself.”

– Epictetus, Enchiridion, 13a

In today’s world, news is being pushed at us from all sides. The goal is to be conscious about the information we pay attention to. Much of the gossip in our lives we need not pay attention to, the ‘who’s who’ and latest shows. What impact does it have on your life? What choices have you changed due to that information?

At times it is hard, the news can be captivating. It can feel relevant. Yet, often it isn’t. You have no say in the outcome, so input into the process, your immediate health is not at risk – so why are we so enthralled? In some cases it is entertainment, but often it is a perceived impact. Likely why the news drives so often to the dramatic, if not to the completely sensationalized.

It is in this vein that I have been trying to steal myself away from the daily news updates and regular tv shows. While I often find myself on the outside of so many conversations, overall it does not bother me. That said I am not completely detached, I keep my ear to the ground for actual news. The trick is knowing the difference.