To Spend Time Peacefully: Thinking About How to Engage with 'Information'

1. The more information there is, the more our hearts are worn down

Lately, we are flooded with events of all sizes, from unsettling news about international affairs to troubles circulating on social media, and even cheerful topics from zoos. Moreover, we now have multiple gateways for information, including not just news sites, but also social media, videos, and apps.
While it has become more convenient, we are in a structure where we continue to be bathed in information before we can even think about whether it is necessary. As a result, I feel like there is an increasing sense that we end our days with accumulated fatigue, dulled thinking, and a restless heart without even realizing it.

2. Organizing X was a process of choosing the 'quality of connections'

I originally used X (formerly Twitter) as my main platform for gathering information and interacting with others, but I recently deleted my main personal account and consolidated my accounts.
This feels more like 'tidying up' than 'cutting off.' From now on, I want to cherish information that leads to my own output, posts that make me feel calm when I see them, and connections with people I feel I get along with.
On the other hand, I removed accounts that spread content just to get buzz, as well as gossip-based accounts that are stimulating and draining. I am quietly distancing myself from things that clutter my mind and heart the more I look at them. Organizing information is somewhat similar to organizing human relationships.

3. A sense of balance in thinking, not just solidifying with 'comfort'

Of course, I do not intend to turn a blind eye to the world's challenges. I believe it is necessary to have a rough grasp of social trends and what people are struggling with.
However, if you try to follow every single individual incident or event, your heart cannot keep up. Furthermore, your brain keeps working, thinking 'I have to think about something,' and in the end, your judgment becomes dulled and your emotions become paralyzed.
That is why I follow trusted journalists directly and look not only at people who think like me, but also at those with different values. By broadening my perspective, I can reduce bias and maintain composure. This should also serve as a foundation for solidifying my stance when I share information and for clarifying 'what I want to convey.'

4. Selecting information reduces brain fatigue and protects the heart

Since returning to the iPhone, I have set one rule: 'Do not install the X app on the iPhone.' Because the iPhone is convenient, I find myself picking it up and opening social media unconsciously. The scary part is that the joke-like behavior of opening it again immediately after closing it really happens.
Therefore, I view X on my PC at set times. Or, I check the trends for only a short time. I do not create a state where information 'flows in infinitely.' This alone allows the brain to rest surprisingly well.

In an era of information overload, what is needed might be 'systems' rather than strong willpower. By limiting the entry points, such as using RSS (Feedly) or YouTube, and deciding the amount and time for viewing, you can create a state where you can choose information. Doing so reduces brain fatigue and calms the restlessness of the heart.
To spend time peacefully, it is not about not knowing the world, but about organizing 'how you know it.' I feel once again that changing how you engage with information is the most realistic way to protect your heart.

Information Selection Checklist (Loosely Recommended)

• Organize who you follow: Unfollow/mute accounts that make you feel tired when you see them

• Narrow down to a few trusted sources: Prioritize journalists and information close to the primary source

• Keep a space for things that 'calm your heart': Favorite creative works, soothing posts, words from people you get along with

• Mix in a little bit of different values: Intentionally include one different perspective to check for bias

• Reduce entry points from your smartphone: Do not install social media apps / remove them from the home screen / turn off notifications

• Decide where and when to view: Only for X minutes on a PC, only for a short time during breaks, etc.

• Avoid passive infinite scrolling: Lean toward a form of 'going to get' information via RSS or search

Conclusion: Peacefulness can be created through 'systems' rather than 'willpower'

When people talk about reducing information, it often tends to become a story about 'enduring with strong willpower.' But in reality, 'designing your environment' is much more effective than willpower.
In an era where information flows in infinitely the moment you open a screen, it is better for us to set the rules first. By doing so, the time your brain can rest increases, and the restlessness of your heart will gradually settle down.

Finally, I have included a "Checklist for Engaging with Information" that I personally keep in mind. Please try even just one thing from the list that you feel you can manage.

There are countless ways to stay connected to the world without chasing after every piece of information.
It is not just about "what you know," but also about organizing "how you know it." That might be the most practical way to spend your time with peace of mind.

↑ I thought this was such a clever way to put it.

In this day and age, "information" is like a buffet that gets replenished no matter how much you eat.
We often end up taking more than our plates can hold, or we focus so much on getting our money's worth that we eat too much without considering our own limits, and end up feeling sick instead.

Everything in moderation. And check whether you have a "balance."

May you consume delicious "information" properly and live a rich, fulfilling life.

Thank you for reading until the end today as well! m(__)m