The magic of noise canceling

What is it about a little bit of background noise that throws me off so much?

I find it incredible how using my AirPods or noise-canceling headphones can get me into a mental state where it’s a lot easier to focus on what I want to do, even though I’d be sitting in a quiet environment.

Perhaps any noise - no matter how subtle - draws my attention and is a seed for distracting thoughts.

At times I think: “This is silly. Why am I too sensitive to this thing?” and I try to work on my sensitivity instead of admitting my weaknesses to myself and working with my preferences, not fight against them. Why not create the best environment for myself, when I can, and to cultivate greater resilience, as well?

I don’t have to prove anything to anyone. I don’t have to work on my weaknesses while missing the opportunity to enhance my productivity and focus.

Are there situations where you’re not creating the best conditions for yourself because you think you should perform well in any conditions? Is that helping or hindering?

P.S. I got up at 5AM today! This may sound silly, but my phone was on Silent Mode, which is why I couldn’t hear the alarm. I didn’t think Silent Mode impacted the alarm! I’m not sure if the alarm got louder, but it vibrates when not in Silent Mode, which is what usually wakes me up and is good enough for me.