How to Turn Down the Noise Around You

I find it hard to work in noisy environments.  Nothing unusual there.  Many of us need quiet to concentrate and get tasks done as smoothly as possibly.  So why do I choose to work in a Prison.  Noise in the extreme you might think.  But it’s not.

Our Education Department has an air of calm.  Yes, staff have their moments, and prisoners might not like some of the conversations around them, but the noise is selective. And I’ve learnt to filter it.

We should all be alert to the noises of danger.  That’s a given. But when we let the chatter (noise on a superficial level) distract us, then that could be a challenge.

• Are you someone who prefers noise to quiet?
• Do you like the buzz of conversations rather than the solitude of your thoughts?
• Does background noise help you work better?
• What about the noise you have in your head?

So here’s the challenge – pick an aspect of daily noise that either gives you a headache or some type of noise that is an irritant to you (maybe it’s a prattling colleague, or the radio you have on, or the ear-worm song you can’t get out of your head).

Now see if you can filter it out. Don’t try and drown it out.  You have to actively notice it, then decide NOT to pay attention to it. And see if that improves how you feel.

Remember: we get more of what we give our attention to.  So if you’re finding you tune into certain types of noise, try practising unattachment. Allow the noise to flow in, out and through you.

The key is to be aware of noise that matters, but to gravitate to the quiet moments that can give us pause, space and ease.

I have colleagues who like the radio on when they’re working.  Rather than get difficult with them I asked (with kindness and respect) if they might put in ear buds.

People respond to quieter approaches. I’m told my calm manner makes other more calm.

If you’re frenetic, perhaps turning down your noise dial will make things flow easier.

It’s selective tuning. Tune into the noises that matter.  Don’t let the dross and noise of life overwhelm you.  Learn how to filter out what matters to you and those around you.

Take it slowly and focus on one at a time,  and see how focussed attention helps you move through your day.

As I write this, my work day is ended.  I choose quiet at home.  My lovely kitchen is calm and peaceful with nothing to distract or disturb my concentration. 

All my attention is here, in the moment and I choose not to be interrupted by any unwanted noises.

I’m operating my own BS noise level check.

How about you?