Like many of you, I struggle with silence. I like it but don’t love it. It can be jarring, even for me as a strong introvert.

This new podcast by the team at Asian Efficiency highlights a new book called Golden: the Power of Silence in a World of Noise.

The book’s authors explain that “finding silence” has many benefits beyond the sheer lack of noise. For example, silence is a proven means of regenerating brain cells.

Well that’s good.

The authors also promote the ongoing practice of appreciating quiet spaces, some of which might include noise. For example, riding a bike and enjoying the sound of the wind rushing by, etc. Each day is filled with these noise-included moments that contribute to our ability to listen and find solitude.

Silence may be the total lack of noise. Silence is also discovered in between sounds, in full potentiality.

Here’s your homework: tilt your head and pay attention to the noises around you. Turn off the tv or YouTube or your car radio. Appreciate the sigh of your dog across the room. Listen to the sound of your refrigerator or dishwasher. Notice the many sounds that make up your day. In so doing, you’ll also discover the silence in between the sounds and the noise.

As St. Teresa of Calcutta famously said, “God is the friend of silence.”

-Mike

PS I have a new newsletter over a Nonprofit Productive called Nonprofit Studio. I’d love for you to sign up for it today.