Navigating News Overload Without Losing Your Focus

Hey Y’all. I’ve been trying to wrap my thoughts around the current state of our world and harness my strength and power to be a resource for you all. I promise I’m in this with yall and here to support you. More details to come! In the meantime, This is what I hope you can anchor too.

It’s hard to ignore what’s going on, and to wonder where we are headed with these constant news updates can feel like a tidal wave pulling you under just when you’re trying to keep your head above water. And for those of us already pushing against systemic barriers, it hits even harder. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, I want you to hear this loud and clear: your feelings are valid, and you are not alone. Here’s how to shake off that weight and reclaim your power:

First, Call It What It Is

There’s power in naming what’s draining you. Being bombarded with crisis after crisis isn’t just exhausting—it’s emotional whiplash. For underrepresented leaders, it’s not just the news; it’s the added pressure of advocating for equity in spaces where your voice has historically been dismissed. 

As I wrote in Dear Resilient Leader:

“Resilience isn’t ignoring the storm; it’s learning to dance in the rain.”

2. Set Boundaries Like Your Peace Depends on It (Because It Does)

• Limit Your Intake: Give the news a time limit—15 to 30 minutes max. And skip the doom-scroll before important meetings or tasks.

• Curate Your Sources: Stick to outlets that focus on facts and solutions, not just sensational headlines designed to trigger anxiety.

• Mute the Noise: Turn off those non-urgent notifications. Your focus deserves better.

Try this: “I’m pausing updates until 5 PM so I can stay present for my team. Let’s catch up then.”

3. Focus on What’s in Your Control

When everything feels chaotic, anchor yourself in what you can influence:

• Small, Mighty Actions: Speak up in meetings, mentor someone, or share a resource that shifts the needle toward equity.

• Grounding Rituals: Before diving into high-stakes tasks, take 60 seconds to breathe deeply. Or remind yourself:“This is what I’m facing—not who I am.”

4. Lean Into Your Community

• Delegate with Trust: You don’t have to carry it all. Assign someone to monitor specific updates so you can focus on strategy.

• Create Space for Real Talk: Host a quick team check-in. Share what’s on your mind, invite others to do the same, and brainstorm together. Vulnerability isn’t weakness—it’s leadership.

5. Reconnect to Your “Why”

When it feels like the world’s spinning too fast, come back to your purpose. Remember, as Thasunda Brown Duckett wisely said:

“You rent your title; you own your character.”

Your leadership—rooted in equity, resilience, and empathy—is the light others are looking for.

Let’s End with This Affirmation:

You’ve got this, Resilient Leader. XoXo, Jacqueline Twillie