elegant aspirations

In today's world, noise is everywhere. What was once quiet has transformed into a cacophony of sounds: loud television commercials, incessant social media notifications, and even the beeping of gas pumps.

Beyond the external noise, we must also contend with the internal noise—the constant chatter in our minds. This inner voice starts as soon as we wake up, offering a running commentary on our day: "I know today is going to be terrible," or "I should have called my sister; now she’ll be upset with me."

This voice often predicts adverse outcomes, worries about what could go wrong, and tells us what we like or dislike based on how well the world aligns with our expectations. It can even create inner conflict: "I shouldn’t have that third glass of wine, but after a day like mine, I deserve it, don’t I?"

When we try to find rest at night, the fragments of our day’s experiences mix with our restless thoughts, leading to overwhelm and fatigue—exactly when we need to unwind.

While there are simple steps to reduce external noise—like turning off the news, unplugging from the internet, or going for a quiet walk—silencing our inner voice is more challenging, especially for those who do not practice meditation.

However, a quiet part of us, often referred to as our essence, spirit, soul, or life force, exists separately from our racing thoughts. We can rely on this part of ourselves to help calm the inner voice.

Try this experiment: Find a quiet spot, sit down, and listen to what your inner voice says. You may be surprised by the relentless stream of judgments, memories, and worries that bombards you. Even in a peaceful setting, you might find yourself feeling far from tranquil. Don’t be fooled into criticizing yourself for having these thoughts—that’s the voice presenting the opposing viewpoint. These thoughts are normal. What matters is how we manage them.

Studies indicate that over 95% of our thoughts are meaningless and do little to change the external world. Regardless of how agitated our minds become, the world remains unchanged. However, by observing our thoughts, we can consciously choose to refocus, creating space and mental energy for what truly matters in improving our lives.

This shift can lead to better relationships, as the calm presence we cultivate replaces the volatility generated by our inner dialogue. When freed from constant worry, our stress decreases, our physical health improves, and we can work more productively and think creatively.

So, give yourself a break. Tune out the noise, embrace the silence, and contribute to a quieter, more peaceful world.