The World is Too Loud

Growing up, my mom would be driving, and if my brother and I were too loud, she'd yell, "Quiet down! I can't see!" I used to think that made no sense and was just another weird Latina thing to say. How could our noise affect her sight? But as I got older and developed a bit of driving anxiety myself, I realized how true that statement was.

Now, on a broader note, I see how this can be related to many aspects of our world today: social media, TikTok, YouTube, overconsumption, hype, FOMO, capitalism, fake news, AI, and doom scrolling. All of this is noise. And for creatives, all these noise blinds distract and send you into a limbo state where you lack motivation, originality, and authenticity.

Studies have shown that taking time for silence restores the nervous system, helps sustain energy, and makes our minds more adaptive and responsive. For example, Duke Medical School’s Imke Kirste found that silence is associated with developing new cells in the hippocampus, the brain region linked to learning and memory.

Another study in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that the disadvantages of noise and distraction in open office plans outweighed the anticipated benefits like increased morale and productivity from unplanned interactions.

But cultivating silence isn't just about escaping office chatter or tweets. True, deep silence is what clears your mind and fosters creative thinking. It quiets both inner and outer noise. It's about giving your mind a break from constantly protecting your reputation or pushing your point of view. It's about stepping away from the pressure of always needing something to say.

Achieving this kind of silence and solitude doesn’t mean you have to be like Emerson and hide away in a cabin in the woods for months. Although, if that’s your thing, go for it. The real goal is to make silence a priority for yourself. Walk away from the anxiety of the world and be okay with the present moment. Be okay in your own company. Be okay with doing nothing for just a little bit.

Even incredibly busy people can cultivate periods of sustained quiet time. Here are five practical methods you can start implementing today:

1. Create a "Quiet Corner" at Home.

Designate a specific area in your home for silent activities only. Fill it with comfortable seating, soft lighting, and perhaps a few inspiring books or art pieces. Use this space to disconnect and recharge.

2. Implement a "Digital Sunset."

Set a specific time each evening when all digital devices are turned off. Use this time to unwind, reflect on the day, and prepare your mind for a restful night's sleep. This can be a game-changer for your mental clarity.

3. Silent Mornings.

Start your day without any digital noise. For the first hour after you wake up, avoid checking your phone, emails, or social media. Instead, use this time for quiet reflection, journaling, or simply enjoying a peaceful breakfast.

4. Weekly "No-Talk Walks."

Dedicate one walk per week to silence . Leave your phone at home or in your pocket, and just focus on your surroundings. Notice the details of nature or the architecture around you. Let your mind wander without any specific goal.

5. Silent Reading Retreat.

Plan a mini-retreat dedicated to reading and silence. Choose a weekend or even just a single day where you retreat to a quiet place with a selection of books. Immerse yourself in reading without the interruption of digital devices or social interactions.

I myself have noticed and become more aware of when I am endlessly scrolling on my phone, looking for the next kick of serotonin to make me feel happy, just to end up feeling exhausted, confused, anxious, and unmotivated afterward.

Platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and even linkedin can, at times, harm the creative spirit as sometimes we blindly follow the noise, follow others' train of thought, and compare ourselves to other creatives, others' success, and trust me, I fall victim to this too. I am working on it daily but have noticed a massive difference after the effort is put in.

But yes, the world is too fucking loud. Find a time to escape from it all and quite literally unplug yourself from it and watch yourself fall in love with your craft again.?