The whole world is constantly clammering for my attention. Do this. Read that. You need this. You're not good enough. You would be happier if... A constant barrage of messages all designed to influence my thoughts and emotions. Recently, I've started actively protecting myself from others' agenda by saying to myself, "Not my problem." When someone, society, or worse of all myself, tries to place a sense of obligation or concern in my mind, I just say to myself, "Not my problem." I've got plenty of problems already; I don't need another unnecessary one.
I don't vote. Plenty of people have dedicated their lives to weigh in on politics that one more won't make a difference. I have lots of real problems that only I can solve. I don't want to waste time on problems that I can't solve. I don't care about politics. I don't care about theology. I don't care about climate change. I don't care about the future of the country. I don't care about the myriad good causes and important issues. I don't care about the sad state of our world. I just don't care. I don't have a problem with other people caring about those things. I'm just not interested.
Even more difficult than protecting myself from external pressure is protecting myself from myself. I have no problem creating a long list of things I "should" be doing. There is an endless array of potential personal projects I could spend my time on, like washing my van, organizing my storage unit, and digitizing my photos. When I look at my van and see that it needs a good wash, I have to ask myself if it is worth the time. So what if people judge me for it? Other people's judgy attitude is not my problem.
In summary, this is what ChatGPT generated:
Summary:
The writer reflects on the overwhelming demands of modern life, where external voices constantly push for attention, action, and concern. To protect their mental peace, they've adopted the mantra “Not my problem,” using it to block out societal pressures and unnecessary obligations. They consciously avoid caring about broad issues like politics, theology, and global crises, choosing instead to focus on personal problems within their control. Additionally, they recognize the internal pressure from their own endless to-do lists and remind themselves not to take on tasks just for appearances or guilt. Ultimately, the message centers on setting boundaries and prioritizing peace over external expectations.