One important part of my News Hermit approach is a turn toward positivity. Choosing to unplug from the relentless cycle of news isn’t just about stepping away from the noise—it’s about being intentional with what I choose to let in. For me, that means curating my reading and media consumption toward a more upbeat and hopeful tone.

Some “serious” people might scoff at the idea of prioritizing good news or happy human interest stories, thinking it’s naive or unimportant. But for me, it’s a conscious choice to tamp down the inner cynic and embrace content that uplifts and inspires. It’s a way of reminding myself that even in a world where challenges and struggles are real, there’s joy, kindness, and resilience to be found too.

This doesn’t mean I’m ignoring serious issues or pretending everything is sunshine and rainbows. It means I’m choosing balance. I’m opting to see the full range of the human experience, which includes stories of triumph, laughter, and connection. It means leaning into the fun stuff, the quirky stories, the moments that make you smile and remind you that life isn’t only about the hard and heavy.

Turning toward positivity has been an active practice for me. It’s easy to get swept up in the belief that to be informed is to be perpetually serious and concerned. But I’m learning that to be truly informed about the human condition, I need to see the light alongside the dark. I need to give space to the stories that show what’s working, what’s hopeful, and what’s beautiful in our world.

So, as I continue on this path of being a News Hermit, I’m doing my best to curate what I consume and embrace the good stuff unapologetically. I’m letting myself smile, laugh, and marvel at the positive. And in a way, that might be the most radical part of this approach yet.