Noise Cancelling for Creators

I'm noticing a heightened level of noise these days. Everywhere I look there is something vying for my attention. I'm not talking about meaningless noise, but important issues that do deserve my attention at some level. It's important noise, but still noise.

I'm unsure if the noise has increased, or if my awareness of the noise is keener. Either way, it's impacting my ability to focus as a creator.

Personally, I need sustained large blocks of focused time to create anything of substance. I sense this is the same for others as well. I'm being purposeful about canceling out the noise around me to give myself the space to create.