Just days after Donald Trump’s striking victory in the presidential race, I have a piece of advice for Democrats, anti-MAGA conservatives, and like-minded individuals: Try to ignore the noise for now.

Honestly, there’s nothing positive happening out there. Republicans are cheering, saying, “Hooray! We’ve chosen a convicted felon with authoritarian tendencies!” — and that’s their prerogative. Meanwhile, Democrats are divided, either futilely blaming Vice President Kamala Harris for her loss or predicting doom regarding what an unchecked President Trump might do.

DID YOU HEAR WHO HE MIGHT CHOOSE FOR HIS CABINET?!?

WE COULD’VE WON IF WE HAD JUST (insert something that would have made no real difference)!

IT’S POSSIBLE MAGA WILL NEVER GIVE UP POWER!!

It’s overwhelmingly loud out there. Truly deafening. Just the noise of chaos surrounding a misguided crew.

Trump Won’t Be in Charge Until Late January. So Take a Breather.

It’s early November. Trump won’t actually take charge until late January. We’ve got a couple of months of sanity left, and I don’t think we should waste it worrying about hypothetical fears and dreadful scenarios.

Those at greater risk, especially immigrants and their families, should indeed be preparing. This goes for anyone who can assist them and any advocates and organizations ready to oppose Trump’s agenda.

When I say “tune out,” I mean stop focusing on the daily chaos and sensationalism surrounding Trump that fills news outlets and social media.

Those of us against Trump have good reasons to brace for the worst, but there’s no need to start imagining it until he’s actually able to do something about it. Worrying now drains our energy, which is already limited, and takes away my optimism, which is nonexistent.

What’s the Benefit of Watching Trump Right Now?

Think about it. Does focusing on Trump’s daily antics between now and his inauguration really benefit you? Are you expecting to find something worse than him carelessly endangering legal immigrants by falsely claiming they eat pets?

Do you believe he’ll say something more shocking than remarking on a golfer’s anatomy or pledging to detain millions of immigrants? Are you monitoring the news to see if he gets legally reprimanded for sexual assault again before taking office?

No, I suspect we all know enough about who the president-elect is, so obsessing over every little detail between now and January 20 is as helpful as poking a bruise to check if it still hurts.

Trump Will Always Be in the Spotlight, But You Don’t Have to Engage

Trump’s skill is living rent-free in our minds, which he achieves through an incessant stream of disturbing or ridiculous comments and norm-shattering actions.

This tactic works, but only if we respond to it, and I understand how challenging it is not to engage. It’s almost impossible to turn away, especially when genuine issues that could arise loom large.

However, if you are willing to trust me a bit more, I assure you this: Engaging with the uproar and potential crises at this moment won’t alter anything.

As we approach a return of our political system to a self-centered figurehead, now is the perfect time to disconnect from it all, focus on positive thoughts, and surround yourself with supportive individuals. And yes, if Trump’s presidency poses a threat to you or your loved ones, do prepare accordingly.

Opt Not to Get Caught Up in This Madness

But preparing doesn’t mean fixating on the ongoing narrative about Trump. This time is about letting liberal politicians shout and create fear, while conservative politicians strut and boast — and you should allow yourself to mute all of it.

Because at the end of the day — left, right, or center — it’s all just noise and nonsense.

In my mind, I keep hearing the echo of these lyrics from The Grateful Dead once said, “Even if I can’t warn everyone, I can still caution some: Don’t join in on the madness by raising a flag on a ship full of fools.”

Avoid getting involved in nonsensical actions. Take some time for yourself.

You can take steps to prepare for the future. You’ll know when it’s the right time to re-engage.

That’s when the true battle starts.