Consumption Assumptions

We live in a world that’s overflowing with information. Not only is it constant, but it’s often conflicting. You can find a source to confirm just about any bias or opinion you already hold—which can be exhausting!

When we consume content that confirms our biases, we get a natural dopamine hit, a rush of “feel-good” hormones. But when we come across information that challenges us? That can bring a wave of anxiety, sometimes without us even realizing it.

That’s why I focus on consuming content that positively impacts me. Because what you consume, you assume—just like how the food we eat affects our physical health, the information we take in shapes our mental state. This is why building an information diet is so important.

What you consume, you assume.

Here are three ways to manage the information you consume.

1. Identify the purpose.

Why are you consuming this information? Are you trying to learn a new skill? Do you need it for work? Or are you simply seeking out different opinions and viewpoints? Identifying the purpose helps ensure you’re consuming the right information for your goals.

Without a purpose, we’re mindlessly consuming. And when we move from mindless to mindful consumption, everything we take in is more meaningful.

2. Constrain with clear boundaries.

If you find yourself endlessly scrolling through social media or jumping from one YouTube video to the next, set boundaries. For example, delete the apps from your phone and only use them on your computer. Log out after each session, so you’re forced to sign back in. That little bit of friction helps you manage your time better.

I use RSS to subscribe to YouTube channels instead of going directly to the site. Why? Because RSS lets me control what I want to watch, without falling into the “related videos” rabbit hole that eats up hours before you know it.

3. Extract valuable insights and practice them.

It’s one thing to be intentional and set boundaries, but you also need to ensure the information you consume is valuable. Don’t just passively absorb it—extract the key insights and find ways to apply them.

When I come across something that truly resonates, I write it down in a Notion document. I explain why it stood out to me and how I can use it or build on it. This practice makes the information more actionable, and I often repurpose these insights into my own content.

For example, when I returned to Twitter and LinkedIn after years away, I followed these same steps:

1. I identified the purpose. I wanted to build my brand and presence online to create new opportunities. Creating content also helped me clarify my thinking.
2. I constrained usage. I set clear routines and time blocks for posting, creating content, and engaging with others.
3. I extracted value. Whenever something resonated, I captured it in Notion, reflected on why it mattered, and sometimes repurposed it into new content.

The key is to find the balance that works for you. But whatever you do, approach information consumption with intention, boundaries, and actionable takeaways. Remember—what you consume, you assume. Make sure it’s feeding your mental health and well-being.