Katy Perry’s “World’s Best Cherry Pie” Recipe Is an Unexpected Tease

What does "doom scrolling" mean?

"Doom scrolling" is exactly what it sounds like — an incessant amount of staring at social media feeds. From Dr. Lee's perspective, it's "when we continuously and compulsively scroll through negative news or distressing content on social media or news sites." The worst part is that she says "we often continue to do so even when it makes us feel progressively worse over time!" It's almost like we're in a toxic relationship with it 👀.

Also, the news is much more accessible than it used to be. I vividly remember my grandmother being glued to the morning and evening reports growing up, but now we don't have to look far for a breakdown of what's going on. Because of this, Dr. Lee believes "breaking ourselves out of this cycle is especially difficult because much of the news today is presented in a way that keeps us 'hooked.'" How?

Why are more people talking about it?

Based on her observations, Dr. Lee feels "social media algorithms often prioritize content that is engaging and gets reactions (often fear-based)." If you've ever used the word "rage-bait" in a conversation then you're already familiar with what she means. As a result, this "makes it easy to get stuck in a loop of distressing information," according to her. "In fact, with world issues such as climate concerns and political polarization, there seems to be an endless stream of negative news," she adds.

As much as I haven't wanted to talk about them, it's hard to escape concerns and opinions related to topics such as politics, reproductive health, or celebrity PR disasters. They have a way of showing up in conversations because almost everyone I know has access to a smart phone, where news is readily available at our fingertips.

What are negative side effects of being on social media or news sites 24/7?

If you've been feeling on edge or skittish lately, Dr. Lee wants you to know there's a connection between them and doom scrolling. "There are plenty of negative consequences of doom-scrolling. It can increase our feelings of stress and anxiety, lead to feelings of depression and hopelessness, disturb our sleep (if doom-scrolling late at night), and eat up our time during the day when we’re trying to be productive and engage in positive life activities," she says.

However, some good has come out of an increased awareness about doom scrolling. According to Dr. Lee, "we are becoming more aware of the effects of screen time, especially doom scrolling, our our mental health." I didn't know it at the time, but going into my phone settings to create boundaries for myself was the right thing to do!

How can I curb this habit?

If you're ready to stop being so attached to your phone, Dr. Lee has a few tips to help you make this necessary change.

1. Create screen limits: "Set time limits on how much news you consume. I like to keep it around 30 minutes a day of news exposure."
2. Review your notifications: "Remove news notifications from your phone to remove the constant barrage of 'breaking news' so that YOU can decide when to check in."
   
3. Try listening to a podcast: "Subscribe to a news podcast such as The Daily or NPR News Now. Podcasts automatically have a time limit and often discuss the most pressing news of the day. PLUS, you can listen while doing something stress-relieving, such as working out."

How can I tell if I'm doom scrolling or casually looking at social media?

It can be confusing when you're not sure if you're casually scrolling on social media, or succumbing to doom and gloom. But Dr. Lee doesn't want you to stress yourself out even further! Here's how she says you can tell which one you're doing:

1. Stay curious: "Pay attention to your mood during and after scrolling. Are you feeling anxious, drained, or exhausted? Do you keep scrolling bad news and struggle to stop even though it makes you feel progressively worse? These are signs that you are doom-scrolling."
2. Pay attention to content you're consuming: "On the other hand, if you are engaging with a variety of content (not just bad news) that makes you feel informed, entertained, or inspired, you are likely just casually scrolling. Casually scrolling often feels easier to stop than doom-scrolling."

In this segment, Paige Wiese, founder & CEO of Tree Ring Digital in Denver, CO, walks us through some of the ways she encourages clients to double down on marketing when business is slow. Paige built her business as a solopreneur graphic designer to a team of 15, helping clients with SEO, online ads, and social media management. Here’s her Take 5, plus more tips for surviving the business lulls below!

What's a recent small win for you and your business?

Paige: A recent small win has been just seeing business pick up again. I am seeing businesses start to engage with their marketing efforts and really trying to get to the root of why their website might be underperforming. We look at what they can be doing to see their money actually go to a place that it should be going.

What's a big piece of advice that you give to your clients?

Paige: A lot of them want to back off anytime there's a little bit of scarcity. I really think that's the time to double down, whether it be your digital presence, your website, or just adjusting how you're spending your money. But instead of just saying, ‘Hey, we're going to stop [investing in marketing],’ ask ‘How do we double down in the correct way and make sure we're seeing measurable results out of it?’ I do it myself anytime business is a little slow. I think we have to either change or we need to be doubling down. A lot of clients come to us when the pipeline is already dry and money is tight and they’re hoping for a quick fix. Marketing, unfortunately, isn't a quick fix.

See more tips for surviving business lulls below!

What's an unexpected business challenge you’ve faced and how did you overcome it?

Paige: I think one of the bigger challenges that we've run into has been more on the employee side, some of the retention or the hiccups that come along the way and then just learning from them. So how can we be a better, stronger company coming out of this and how do we use it as a growing opportunity?

How has the Verizon Small Business program helped propel your business forward?

Paige: I learned about the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready program through the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC). It's a free resource that’s self-paced and very digestible. The variety of topics it covers is a large gamut for any size business. The Selling with Storytelling course, especially, was really valuable to me, just really getting your messaging out there. I laugh that I sometimes enjoy the marketing ones a little bit more just because it is a refresher or another take on how we do this.

Thanks Paige!

Here Are More B+C Tips For Surviving The Small Business Lulls

1. Refine Your Strategy
   • Review your business plan and goals. Are you on track? What can be improved?
   • Analyze customer feedback and sales data to spot trends and areas where you can grow.
2. Boost Your Marketing Efforts
   • Refresh your website or social media profiles. Verizon Small Business Digital Ready’s free Put Your Website to Work course will help you get started with best practices for building your business website.
   • Create engaging content through blogs, videos, and newsletters. Verizon’s free Creating Compelling Content course can help you create consistent, quality content for your target customers.
   • Offer promotions or limited-time discounts to attract new customers.
3. Invest in Learning
   • Take an online course related to your industry, like Verizon’s free Planning for the Unexpected course for building resiliency in your business.
   • Stay updated on industry trends and innovations.
   • Engage with customers too. Send personalized emails to loyal customers or clients. Ask for reviews!
4. Improve Your Processes
   • Streamline operations or explore new tools to increase your efficiency.
   • Organize your workspace and declutter your digital files.
5. Self-Care and Rest
   • Take advantage of the slower pace to recharge. A refreshed mindset is exactly what you need to bring forth fresh ideas!

Hanes SuperSoft 2-Piece Lounge Set

This $14 (was $27) lounge set comes with two super-soft separates that boast a roomy fit, so you can relax in total comfort.

Promising review: "I haven’t bought any Hanes products for myself before so I wasn’t sure what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised with these pjs. They’re so comfy and cozy, the fabric is so soft. I ordered my normal size and they fit perfectly. The oversized boxy tee with the oversized shorts work great for hot summer nights. They’re not a heavyweight cotton but not flimsy and thin either; like a typical cotton tee. They washed well and I never put my clothes in the dryer in an effort to extend the life of my clothing. They’re a good quality for the price."

Anrabess Overalls

Actually cute overalls? For just $20?! Wowza. This adjustable pair is such fun one-and-done outfit idea to keep close during spring and summer. We love to wear ours over tank tops and tees alike!

Promising review: "Really cute short overalls! Fits as suggested. I’m 5’4”, 140 lbs, and I have thick thighs. The leg openings are fairly wide even on me. I’m not a youngster anymore and appreciate that these aren’t short shorts. I washed them and the material and straps came out smooth. Nice material held its shape and no shrinkage."

FashionPuzzle Small Crescent Shoulder Bag

This $20 (was $27) shoulder bag makes a great wear-everywhere accessory, especially if you're looking for a playful pop of color! You can find it in 19 more colors to suit your style.

Promising review: "This purse is a keeper. The size is perfect, not too small, not too big. I ordered two colors for my daughter. Colors were vibrant. The quality is good. She has been using for 2 months now with no quality problems. I would buy again."

Wiholl Cap Sleeve Top

Fit with some summery cap sleeves, this $9 (was $20) top is a wardrobe must-have for those warmer days. It's also shoppable in so many different solid colors to match your outfit plans!

Promising review: "I admit I did not have high hopes for this top but I was genuinely surprised at the quality. Nice thick fabric that is not see through. Great on trend look for spring and summer."

The Gym People Full-Zip Up Hoodie

It's giving Lulu vibes for way less. This $20 (was $37) zip-up hoodie is easy to throw on and even easier to wear all day, thanks to its soft cotton construction. It's fitted with plenty of pockets and accented with seams throughout to give it a luxe look!

Promising review: "The material feels pretty thick and like it will hold up decently well. I think the cut is super flattering. Great value for the price!"

Anrabess Boxer Shorts

These stunning $9 (was $15) shorts are perfect for lounging around or heading out for errands in style. The gingham is undeniably on-trend right now – pair 'em with a white tank or graphic tee and sneakers, and you're set!

Promising review: "They are cute and comfy, I would size up though if you wanted more of an oversized look. They feel nice with a cute color. They aren’t see through, good quality for price and not too thick either so they are good for summer."

Trendy Queen Going Out Summer Tank Top

This is the most stunning top to take out on the town if you still want some good coverage! The boat neckline is nothing but trendy, plus it looks super sophisticated no matter what you pair it with. For just $12 (was $26) and 20 colors to shop from, this is a deal you can't miss for the sake of your closet.

Promising review: "These are terrific for any wardrobe. I loved them so much that I bought two. They fit nicely, are comfortable, and are great for wearing underneath a blazer, or alone. They are very versatile and slenderizing, hugging your waist."

Semaro Casual Linen High Waist Pants

Linen pants are an absolute staple for summer, and now's the perfect time get your outfits prepped and ready with this $17 (was $20) pair. The elastic waistband and breathable linen fabric make them a dream to wear. Comfy vibes only!

Promising review: "Very cool and comfortable for the upcoming warmer weather. Nice bright white. Elastic waist has waist tie to adjust for comfort. They look great on. Slightly wide leg and ankle. Will look great with summer tops. Can be fashionable for older or younger women. Did not shrink when washed in col water on delicate cycle. Air dried. Has a pretty linen texture. Not see through which can be an issue with some white materials."

Amazon Essentials Lightweight V-Neck Cardigan

This easy-wearing cardigan is practically begging for a place in your closet. Though basic, it'll pair well with pretty much everything! From jeans to dresses, if you're in need of a reliable light layering piece, this $15 pick is downright perfect.

Promising review: "Bought this cardigan to wear over a denim dress and other dresses. It is 55% cotton and true to size. Quality is great and feels very soft. If you like the traditional-cardigan look, give this one a try!"

Feisedy Vintage Aviator Sunglasses

A cute pair of sunnies never fails to make your 'fits pop. This $16 (was $23) pair is packed with vintage vibes to enhance any look.

Promising review: "Absolutely love these!! The style is fun, the color is amazing, and they actually look and feel high quality!"