What to Do with Noise

Move – Get into the habit of checking in with your ears, and if the sound is unsuitable, simply move somewhere else.

Block – If you can’t move and can’t change the noise, headphones can help. Consider using sounds like birdsong. I don’t recommend music, as it often replaces one distracting sound with another.

Seek silence – Silence is the baseline for all sound, so it’s a great way of recalibrating your listening and regaining your sensitivity to the adverse effects of noise. Give yourself a few minutes of silence every day.