I've Got The Bad News Virus

I'm suffering from an illness you may be familiar with. It's called the Bad News Virus, and hopefully you won't catch it.

Symptoms: Feelings of general lethargy and ennui, pessimism, a desire to go on vacation.
Causes: Reading, listening, worrying and talking about bad news.

This blog exists to be a positive, useful, and hopeful bit of writing designed to support you, the person who seeks career happiness. But since the Bad News Virus has hit, creative juices have not been flowing.

I'd be set if this were a social commentary blog, a financial blog, or even just a blog filled with my uncontrolled ranting.

Do I need to go into details about the Bad News I've been ruminating about? Chances are you've been wringing your hands, too. The Bad News these days is seemingly everywhere if you read or listen to the media much, and even if you don't, I'm sure you're hearing some Bad News simply by chatting with your neighbor over the fence.

Viruses need to run their course - unfortunately there's no vaccination. But as I sit here feeling restless and agitated I'm aware that there are things I can do to mitigate the symptoms of the Bad News Virus.

Here are my suggestions for treating it:

Limit your news intake.

It's great to be informed, but if the news is giving you the Bad News Virus, take a break. I suggest skipping news stories about crime and freak accidents, along with the obituaries.

Don't focus on worst case scenarios.

The rumor mill at companies creates incredibly strong strains of the Bad News Virus. Speculating out loud about worst case scenarios quickly spreads it. The Virus lives on extreme drama, so check your catastrophic thinking.

Generate good news.

Help someone out, take action on something important, or simply take care of yourself.

Be grateful.

There are plenty of good things in your life and in the world - they just don't make headlines. Think about those every day.

Be in community.

The Bad News Virus thrives when you isolate yourself. Connect with others, even if it's just one other person. If it's the right person or group, the Bad News Virus symptoms will dissipate.