Navigating the News: Finding Truth in a World of Noise During Elections with Ashley Moulton
"As a mom, or as a parent, your family is your number one priority. Your biggest way to influence the world is by being a good parent." - Ashley Moulton
Hey Friend! Politics can be contention-filled and confusing. In today's post we will discuss how busy parents can stay informed in healthy ways.
Political Awareness
Ashley Moulton, a good friend and mother of four, has influenced those around her in powerful and positive ways. She is articulate and well-informed, and shows others how to increase in information without getting overwhelmed or weighed down with the news of the day. Being informed about the world around us helps us make better decisions for our families and communities. Though politics are repugnant to many, the political sphere is a part of our lives. Especially in democratic societies, where the people influence the direction of the country, being informed is vital to playing your role as a citizen.
"An informed citizenry is at the heart of a dynamic democracy." - Thomas Jefferson
Finding Reliable Sources
The first step in any journey is to find the source. In politics that can be tricky, but Ashley says, "they're out there. So keep looking."
She recommends All Sides Media for its balanced approach, presenting views from across the political spectrum. This will allow the comparison of different perspectives and lead to forming individual opinions.
Healthy Boundaries
While staying informed is important, it's easy to be negatively affected by the tumult of politics.
"You need to know yourself and you need to know your own boundaries and you need to set them and stick to them." advises Ashley. Pay attention to your mood and well-being. If you feel constantly angry or anxious, you could probably use a break to re-draw those boundary lines in a healthier place.
Constructive Discussions
Political discussions regularly turn from conversations to confrontations. While conflict can be a growth opportunity (more on that another time), political disagreements rarely lead to positive outcomes. As a guide for discussing with others, Ashley suggests considering the purpose of the conversation: "Are you just trying to learn and understand each other? ... Or are you trying to convince this person?" Understanding your intentions can help guide these conversations in a more productive direction.
Making a Difference
Of course, there are political arenas other than the national one. There are public service and leadership groups and positions right where you are. Chances are greater that you will have a more tangible impact at a local level as well.
"If you want to make a difference, pay attention to what's going on in your local area and in your children's schools. That's so important." - Ashley Moulton
School board meetings are very informational and usually give the public the opportunity to voice concerns as well. Following the local news is also a good way to stay informed of what is happening in the area.
Teaching Children
Observation is a leading learning process for children. One of the best ways to teach a child about politics and civic engagement is by modeling healthy public involvement. Being intentionally informed and inquisitive of current events and opportunities to make a difference shows the next generation how to be responsible and informed citizens. Making healthy habits and boundaries in this endeavor creates a positive environment for children to grow and develop their own patterns and opinions. Getting informed and involved in healthy ways is doable and important as doing so impacts the present and future public sphere and your children.
Join us on Fulfillment Therapy, where you'll find healing, wellness, and the tools needed to live a life you can't wait to wake up to. Together, we can create positive ripples of change and help others ignite their lives with lasting joy and fulfillment.
Thanks for listening and as always, shine boldly and brightly, my friend!🎇
*Want to learn more about about how to increase current event information intake without getting overwhelmed? Check out our episode below!
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