Having said all that, in these credit-crunchy times when everything seems so serious, it’s good to keep a bit of perspective if you can. I’m pretty convinced things are difficult for many, but don’t be led by the media coverage and get into a frenzy with it. Remember, it’s their job to make things sound bad – it’s what sells papers and gets people watching and listening, although quite why people choose to listen to depressing stuff more is beyond me. It is always a good idea to remember to limit your exposure to bad news. You are in control of how much negativity you allow into your life. Sure it’s important, but you don’t have to immerse yourself in it just because it’s there and you’re encouraged to.
I am seeing quite a few more people feeling anxious and depressed. It may simply be the weather and lack of light, but don’t underestimate the power of ubiquitous, subliminal bad news messages affecting you at a conscious and subconscious level.
My advice? Have a news fast – avoid reading, listening or watching any news or serious programmes for a week and see how much better you feel. If it’s important enough, you’ll hear about it from someone. Read inspiring books, watch silly feel-good films and re-runs of your favourite TV programmes (we’re talking Porridge/Only Fools/Friends here NOT Eastenders/Casualty/The Bill!!!)
To help, this month, here are some daft Tommy Cooper jokes for you…
This lorry full of tortoises collided with a van full of terrapins. It was a turtle disaster.
I told my girlfriend I had a job in a bowling alley. She said ‘Tenpin?’ I said, ‘No, permanent.’
I went in to a pet shop. I said, ‘Can I buy a goldfish?’ The guy said, ‘Do you want an aquarium?’ I said, ‘I don’t care what star sign it is.
I went to buy a watch, and the man in the shop said ‘Analogue.’ I said ‘No, just a watch.’
I went into a shop and I said, ‘Can someone sell me a kettle.’ The bloke said ‘Kenwood’ I said, ‘Where is he then?’