William James identifies a counterintuitive aspect of wisdom. It is not just about accumulating knowledge; it is also about the skillful practice of selective ignorance. A wise person knows that not every battle is worth fighting, not every comment deserves a response, and not every mistake needs to be dwelled upon.

To "overlook" is an active choice to conserve your mental and emotional energy for what truly matters. It is the ability to let go of minor irritations, petty disagreements, and things beyond your control. This skill is essential for maintaining inner peace and clear focus.

This quote teaches us that a cluttered mind is not a wise mind. By consciously choosing what to ignore, we create the space and clarity needed to engage deeply with the people and pursuits that are most important to us.