One of my goals for 2026 was to subscribe to a newspaper. I wanted to be more informed on current events. I was getting a lot of my news from social media, which meant I was only getting the algorithm wanted me to see. And I was taking in everyone’s rage and anger with it. Not to mention, there was a lot of misinformation – some of it purposeful and some of it unintentional.

I grappled with which newspaper to subscribe to – the New York Times, Washington Post, Wall Street Journal or a local newspaper? Ultimately, I chose my local Chicago Tribune. My need to be informed extended to local issues as well as national.

Six Things I’ve Learned From Reading the Newspaper

1. I’m expanding my vocabulary. It’s been awhile since I’ve had to look up the meaning of words that I read.
2. I made the right choice in subscribing to a local paper. I get the world and national news along with news on issues that affect Illinois and Chicago. I feel more connected to my community and hopefully it will make me a better citizen and smarter voter.
3. The newspaper has so much more than politics and business. I’m loving the Arts & Entertainment sections. In these sections, I learn about upcoming plays and other cultural events, new restaurant openings, books, television, movies and so much more. I feel like my world has expanded beyond the four walls of my home. I have lists of plays I want to see and books I want to read.
4. I’m much calmer about the news. Our country is in crisis. It’s scary and I don’t blame people for being scared or angry, but I don’t want to internalize their feelings. I have my own big feelings about all of it, but ranting on social media isn’t going to solve anything. Being able to take a small step back allows me to time to process and think of ways to fight back.
5. I struggle to read the digital editions. It’s emailed to me every morning and evening, but it’s so easy to get distracted when reading on my phone or computer. I much prefer the physical papers that get delivered on Wednesday and Sunday.
6. Sunday mornings are my new favorite morning. I drink my coffee while siting on the couch and reading the full Sunday paper. I cut out articles that resonate with me and stick them in my journal with my thoughts. I take notes that I’ll be able to reference when it comes time to vote.

Do you read a newspaper? Which one?

Cheers,
B