Media Mush

It might sound odd to some of you, but I am much happier with myself and my life when I have very little media influence.  The more I watch television, read magazines and websites or listen to the radio, the more that influence becomes apparent in my thoughts and actions.  I am inclined to want products I know I don't need, to care more about superficial things that don't truly matter and to spend less time focused on my family when I have an abundance of outside influence. 

I'm also more tense and anxious when I have a lot of media influence.  I think it's because the underlying theme of all media (movies, magazines, television and radio) is that you're not good enough just the way you are.  Pay attention and you'll see it everywhere. 

If you have curly hair, someone will tell you it should be straightened.  You have a gap in your front teeth?  Someone thinks you're ugly unless you have it fixed.  You're not a size 2?  You're a fat slob.  You don't wear the latest trends?  You're a fashion failure.

And it's not just about how we look.  In every major magazine (in print and online), there are countless articles about how to make yourself happier or smarter or more organized.  There are articles about how to find love, how to talk to your children, how to relate to your spouse and how to get ahead at work.  And that's not even counting the advertisements.

When I am selective about what I expose myself to, I allow myself to think clearly; to process the facts, truths and ideas and make decisions based on my own mind and heart. I am more conscientious about purchases and products, more open minded and tolerant and more in tune with my family and their needs. I am more creative and my thoughts flow more freely when I allow them to remain uncluttered. 

That doesn't mean I don't enjoy the occasional magazine, but I choose ones that are centered around something I'm specifically interested in.  I read magazines and websites about cooking, homeschooling, gardening and crafting.  I don't watch television, but I love movies.  I simply choose ones that make me feel good or have some mental "nutritional value."

But, like Mom used to say, "Garbage in, garbage out."





Disclaimer: I don't mean to say that every magazine or television program is a negative influence, obviously I don't have experience with every single magazine, television show, radio program or website.  This is based purely on my personal experiences.