As we step into 2026, the echoes of past upheavals reverberate, questioning the very fabric of our society. Amidst this, a new concept emerges from the cacophony of our digital lives: "Critical Ignoring." Coined amidst the relentless surge of social media, this idea could very well be the mental health reprieve we’ve been yearning for.

Social media, once a platform for connectivity and sharing, increasingly mirrors the toxic wasteland of Cleveland’s Cuyahoga River in the 1960s—so polluted it caught fire. This analogy, drawn by columnist Christopher Mims, vividly captures the current state of our digital interactions. The pervasive influence of platforms like LinkedIn sparks not just connectivity but often a crisis of confidence among its users, who feel bombarded by perpetual self-promotion and the daunting standards of professional success.

But what does "Critical Ignoring" entail? It’s about selective attention, a conscious decision to overlook the incessant buzz of the online world to safeguard our mental space. Just as critical thinking involves analyzing information to form a judgment, critical ignoring is about tuning out noise that detracts from our well-being and discernment.

This approach is particularly relevant as we grapple with the implications of the "Donroe Doctrine" and its impact on our constitutional guarantees. With societal discourse often stifled by fear and intimidation, adopting a stance of critical ignoring might empower us to reclaim our voices and stand firm in our values.

Moreover, the legal profession stands at a crossroads, particularly in California where discussions about redefining the bar exam are underway. The State Bar of California’s solicitation for input on the future of this crucial test is a timely reminder of the need for adaptability and innovation in our professional standards.

In an era where our attention is a scarce commodity, exacerbated by the onslaught of AI and digital content, critical ignoring isn’t just advisable; it’s necessary. By filtering out the unreliable and focusing on what truly enriches us, we can combat the "village town crier" effect of social media that often leads to misinformation and distress.

As we navigate through 2026, let us consider embracing critical ignoring not just as a strategy but as a lifestyle choice—enhancing our ability to focus on what genuinely matters, in both our personal lives and the larger societal context. Could this be the year we prioritize mental clarity over digital noise? Only time will tell, but the groundwork for a shift is certainly there, beckoning us towards a potentially quieter, yet profoundly richer way of living.