While most people scroll through their phones for news, some still turn to printed newspapers each morning.
This habit reveals more than just a love for paper—it’s often tied to traits like valuing focus over distraction, cherishing tradition, and preferring a slower pace to start the day.
So, grab your cup of coffee (or tea), and let’s dive into the fascinating world of newspaper readers.
1) Ritual lovers
There’s something to be said about people who have established morning rituals, and those who still read printed newspapers certainly fall into this category.
Psychologists assert that these people typically appreciate structure and consistency.
They find comfort in the predictability of a morning routine that starts with flipping through the pages of a newspaper.
This isn’t just about keeping abreast of the latest news. It’s a soothing pattern, a ritual that sets the tone for the rest of the day.
It’s as much about the experience – the rustle of the paper, the smell of ink – as it is about the content.
2) Inquisitive minds
Speaking from personal experience, my father is one of those who still enjoys his morning newspaper. And he’s one of the most inquisitive people I know.
People who prefer printed newspapers usually have an inherent curiosity about the world around them.
They value the depth and detail that newspapers provide, often going beyond the headlines and delving into the meat of the stories.
My father, for example, loves to digest detailed analyses, reports, and editorials that offer him an in-depth perspective on issues.
He would sit there with his glasses perched on his nose, completely absorbed in the content, highlighting points of interest with a pen.
This trait isn’t just about being well-informed. It’s about a genuine desire to understand the nuances of the world we live in.
And trust me, having grown up with such a person, I can tell you it makes for some very engaging dinner table discussions!
3) Better retention
Those who read printed newspapers in the morning are often better at retaining information.
A study from the University of Stavanger in Norway found that readers of print materials have a more significant recall of the content than digital readers.
This might be due to the tactile nature of a physical newspaper. The act of turning pages, the feel of the paper, even the smell of print can all aid in embedding information more firmly in our minds.
Therefore, morning newspaper readers are likely to remember more details about the news they read, making them excellent conversation partners when it comes to discussing current events or recent developments.
4) Mental resilience
Here’s something you might not expect: people who read printed newspapers in the morning often display a higher level of mental resilience.
The reason? They’re not easily swayed by the wave of fast-paced, sensational digital news.
In my book, The Art of Resilience: A Practical Guide to Developing Mental Toughness, I discuss the importance of cultivating a resilient mindset.
Choosing to consume news in a slower, more deliberate way, like reading a printed newspaper, can be part of this resilience-building process.
By not getting caught up in the instant gratification of continuous updates and breaking news, these individuals demonstrate a patience and mental fortitude that allows them to absorb information at their own pace.
This not only reduces the stress of trying to keep up with an ever-changing news landscape but also helps build mental toughness over time.
So, if you’re looking to enhance your mental resilience, consider picking up a printed newspaper tomorrow morning. You might just be surprised at the difference it makes.
5) Appreciation of the present
The act of reading a printed newspaper is, in many ways, a celebration of the present moment.
It’s about focusing on the here and now, away from the digital distractions that often pull us away from what’s right in front of us.
I’ve found that since I started reading printed newspapers in the morning, I’ve become more mindful.
There’s something about holding the paper, hearing the pages rustle, and seeing the ink smudge onto my fingers that grounds me in the present.
It’s a moment of tranquility before the day’s chaos begins.
This sense of mindfulness can be a powerful tool for managing stress and promoting mental well-being.
By consciously choosing to engage with the world in a tangible way, we can cultivate an appreciation for the present moment, which is often lost in our fast-paced digital world.
6) Embracing slow living
In our fast-paced digital world, choosing to read a printed newspaper might seem counter-intuitive. But interestingly, it’s this very choice that makes these individuals stand out.
These folks are often proponents of ‘slow living‘, a lifestyle choice that encourages taking time to enjoy life’s simple pleasures.
By choosing a newspaper over rapid-fire online news feeds, they’re consciously opting for a slower pace of life, even if just for a few moments in the morning.
Slow living doesn’t mean being inefficient or lazy. Instead, it’s about making intentional choices to ensure quality over quantity, depth over breadth.
And reading a newspaper – with its in-depth articles and thoughtful editorials – is a perfect embodiment of this philosophy.
So, surprisingly, by seemingly going ‘backwards’ and sticking with printed newspapers, these people are actually making a progressive lifestyle choice that prioritizes well-being and enjoyment over speed and efficiency.
7) Thoughtful consumers
People who read printed newspapers in the morning often have a thoughtful approach to consuming information. They understand that news isn’t just about being the first to know.
It’s about understanding the context, the implications, and the bigger picture.
Printed papers provide this scope with their long-form articles, informed opinions and editorials, allowing readers to delve deeper into the topics that interest them.
These individuals value this depth of information and enjoy taking the time to digest it properly.
This thoughtful consumption extends beyond just news. It reflects a broader approach to life where quality is prioritized over quantity, and understanding over mere awareness.
Above all, individuals who read printed newspapers often feel a stronger connection to their local community.
Local newspapers particularly, provide information on neighborhood events, local politics, high school sports and more. This local focus nurtures a sense of belonging and community spirit.
These readers value this connection. They enjoy knowing what’s happening in their immediate surroundings and often play active roles in their communities.
They’re not just bystanders but participants, invested in the well-being and progress of their local area.
This connection to the community is more than just about staying informed; it’s about being part of something larger than oneself, contributing to the local narrative, and fostering a sense of unity and shared identity.
It’s perhaps the most defining trait of those who still cherish their morning ritual with a printed newspaper.
Final thoughts: It could be a choice
Human behavior is a fascinating mix of inherent traits and conscious choices. This is evident in the simple act of choosing to read a printed newspaper in the morning.
This choice may seem small or insignificant, but it’s often reflective of larger personality traits and lifestyle preferences.
From embracing slow living to valuing community connection, these individuals make a statement with their morning ritual.
In my book, The Art of Resilience: A Practical Guide to Developing Mental Toughness, I discuss how our choices can shape our mindset and contribute to our overall resilience.
Reading a printed newspaper, in its own unique way, can be seen as a conscious choice that contributes to mental toughness, mindfulness, and thoughtful consumption.
