Staying Centered Amid Algorithms and Agendas

In a time of nonstop headlines, notifications, and AI-shaped feeds, many of us are rethinking our relationship with information. Beyond questions of accuracy, the deeper issue is how what we watch, read, and hear influences our sense of self, our choices, and our energy. The core challenge is staying informed without being unconsciously steered—preserving personal sovereignty while navigating sources that may blend facts with framing, incentives, or agendas.A useful starting point is distinguishing subjective truth from objective truth. An objective truth remains true whether we accept it or not; a subjective truth becomes “true” because we believe it. In practice, the two are often intertwined—especially in fast-moving news cycles or complex social issues. One simple experiment is to pause before and after consuming content: take a breath, center yourself, and then notice what shifts. Do you feel grounded or rattled? Empowered or fearful? If a fear response is triggered, ask whether the content informed you—or nudged you toward a narrative.Energy and attention are finite, and beliefs can become costly when we over-invest in them. Personal stress, dissatisfaction, or uncertainty can make us more susceptible to information that mirrors our current mood—sometimes creating self-reinforcing bubbles. Intentionally sampling credible, contrary perspectives can loosen rigid patterns and restore balance. This isn’t about denying hard realities; it’s about keeping enough openness to update our views and protect our vitality.AI and algorithms add new layers. Much of what is labeled “artificial intelligence” is better understood as synthesized or simulated intelligence—powerful at assembling patterns from existing data, but not immune to bias or built-in optimization goals. Personalized feeds can overfit to what we already click, narrowing our lens. Meanwhile, some institutions and outlets simplify complex topics to the point of distortion. The antidote is not cynicism but a shift in role—from passive consumer to active “considerer.” That means welcoming nuance, tolerating uncertainty, and accepting that randomness—in good and bad surprises—remains part of reality.Practical guardrails help: cultivate presence before engaging; take periodic “news fasts”; ask why you’re seeking a given piece of information; prefer sources that inform rather than inflame; and notice when content pulls you off center. Most importantly, protect your inner authority. Information should support your agency, not substitute for it. When we honor our individuality and discernment, we’re better able to learn, adapt, and contribute—without letting the noise define who we are.This episode was shared with Janet's newsletter several days ago. It's now being offered to our channels. Next week's will be shared first with Janet's newsletter. Janet's website is at https://janeteichorst.com/ and Jill's is https://jillreneefeeler.com/Please enjoy, comment, share your experience and pass this video on to anyone that you think may benefit from it. With gratitude,Jill