Noise pollution, once mostly an urban problem, has become a major source of stress in modern life, no matter where you live. To help protect your health and sanity, set aside an hour or so - evening is probably best - when there will be no electronic amplification allowed in the house: no stereo, no TV, no radio, no video games, no toy fire engines. Unplug the phone or install an answering machine to intercept the outside world. You and your family will feel better for it, and perhaps you'll learn to talk to one another.
For some quiet time on the way to work, walk or get off the bus a stop or two early. Or sit on the bus and read an entertaining book; you'll be less aware of noise if you're absorbed. If you drive, stop for a quiet cup of coffee before going in to work.
To discourage an overly friendly passenger on public transportation, carry a personal stereo and put on the headphones. No one will know if you turn the disk on. Or just wear earplugs.
