Everyday noise is often so much a part of our lives that we no longer even notice it. But that is precisely why it’s important to take many small steps to protect all of our ears and improve our quality of life.

Who wouldn’t want to wake up in the morning to the sound of birds chirping, the aroma of coffee, and the sun’s rays on their skin? In many places, however, the reality of the morning is the rumbling street noise outside the window and a shrill alarm clock. Especially in big cities, people are exposed daily to many sources of noise that get on their nerves—and, above all, on their ears—as soon as they wake up.

Noise has become an integral part of our daily lives and, in the long run, not only impairs hearing but also leads to inattention and stress across all age groups.

Often, however, everyday noise is so omnipresent that we no longer even notice it. But once you’re aware of its effects and causes, there are many small things you can do to reduce noise for yourself and others and create a more pleasant environment for everyone.

In your daily life, consciously pay attention to situations in which you notice noise. This starts first thing in the morning when you wake up, as the alarm clock jolts you out of a deep sleep. For example, try alternative ringtones or melodies that help you start your day more calmly, or simply turn on the radio. Even if you refrain from joining in the chorus of honking while stuck in traffic, it helps you and your fellow drivers endure the wait in traffic chaos with less stress.

Often, it’s working together that reduces noise for everyone. Just think of everyday scenarios in open-plan offices, where voices overlap one after another. Simply walk over to a colleague if you want to talk to them—don’t do it across the desks. Even at home during dinner together, it’s not unusual for everyone to talk over each other, and for the background noise to get louder and louder. Letting others finish speaking not only aids understanding but also preserves everyone’s concentration at the table.

Of course, there are also many situations where we simply can’t avoid the noise. A construction worker wears hearing protection when working with a jackhammer, so why not wear earplugs in the front row at a concert? For avid concertgoers, hearing care professionals also offer specially designed hearing protection that doesn’t compromise the sound experience.

Many small actions can make a big difference and reduce the noise around us. If we don’t try to do this, it can lead to long-term damage, hearing loss, or even complete hearing loss. Don’t do this to your ears—learn about the causes, effects, and risks of noise. Noise Awareness Day on April 26, 2017, also raises awareness about the causes of noise and the consequences it has not only for our hearing but also for our quality of life.