3 Things I’m Doing to Drown Out Negativity

Lauren Smith |
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Our world has changed quickly. Here’s how I deal with the new normal.

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Before I share my approach to staying positive and focused in 2020, I want to mention that we’ve been deemed an essential business, and as such, our office has remained open. We are keeping a safe distance from one another, and masks are welcomed at work.

It’s amazing to me just how much our world has changed in the past three months, and when you turn on the news you’re greeted with nonstop doom and gloom—it’s depressing and reminds me of 2008. Between protests, COVID-19, and constant bickering in Washington, this year is enough to discourage anyone. Here’s what I’ve been doing to keep from feeling overwhelmed:

1. I keep my consumption of the news to a minimum. Of course, I’ll still scroll headlines to make sure I understand what’s going on in the world today; staying up to date with world events is part of what I need to do to manage portfolios. Other than that, though, I don’t watch the news anymore.

2. I’ve started reading books I find interesting. I want to make sure my information intake is healthier, and books are a great way to connect with positive, inspiring stories. At the moment, I’m reading Tiger Woods’ biography. Impressive athletes like Woods, Michael Jordan, and Kobe Bryant fascinate me; the mentality they cultivated and their ability to achieve the impossible make for a gripping read. I’m also reading “Tools of Titans” by Tim Ferris, and it’s about the habits and tactics of wildly successful CEOs, billionaires, athletes, and thought leaders. Instead of letting the negativity on TV take up space in my mind, I find it helpful to fill my mind with lessons from books like Ferris’.

3. I’m exercising more regularly now. I’ve started running again and have been getting myself into the gym on a more regular basis. I’m also keeping my nutrition very tight.

"I want to make sure my information intake is healthier,
and books are a great way to connect with positive, inspiring stories."

These are just some of the things I’ve been doing mentally and physically to keep myself from going crazy in this strange world of ours. As always, reach out to my phone or email with questions or concerns. I’m here to be a resource for you, and I hope to talk to you soon!


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