Visit any news source and within 30 seconds, you’re slammed with a slew of negative stories and images. From natural disasters, to crimes and wrongdoings, it seems like the world is one big negative place. And while it’s true it can be pretty dark and depressing, it’s important to remember this is the world view the media gives you. It’s not the whole story, and here are three reasons why.

News media is out of proportion

The world isn’t perfect, and yes, bad things do happen. But good things happen, too. However, the news media doesn’t represent the good and the bad equally. Instead, the scales are tipped in favor of negative news. 

So, for every negative story that gets covered, remember that there are many positive stories that go unnoticed.

Negative news is lucrative news

People tend to gobble up bad news more readily than stories about decent, kind and trustworthy people. So, for better or for worse, negative stories are more attention-grabbing, and they sell.

From a fiscal point of view, it only makes sense that new sources cash in on negative news.

Negative news is a warning sign

It’s important and necessary to know about political, societal and environmental problems.When we’re informed about these problems, we can create solutions for them. 

But there’s a significant slant toward these problems and very little – if any – attention given to the good that is already happening and the progress that is being made. So, if the news exposes a problem, try not to get stuck focusing on the problem. Can you focus on viable solutions instead?

Whenever you feel overwhelmed and disheartened by how negative the world is, remember the media makes it seem that way by placing a disproportionate emphasis on the negative. There are lots of beautiful things happening, too, even if they don’t make the headlines.