The bestselling author of Deep Work introduces a philosophy for technology use that has improved countless lives. Digital minimalists are calm, happy people who can hold long conversations without furtive glances at their phones, enjoy activities without obsessive documentation, and stay informed without feeling overwhelmed.
Newport introduces this quiet movement and makes a persuasive case for its urgency in our tech-saturated world. He identifies common practices of digital minimalists and the ideas that underpin them, such as rethinking their relationship to social media, rediscovering the pleasures of the offline world, and reconnecting with inner selves through regular periods of solitude.
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He shares strategies for integrating these practices into life, starting with a thirty-day “digital declutter” process that has already helped thousands feel less overwhelmed and more in control. Technology is intrinsically neither good nor bad, but the key is using it to support goals and values rather than letting it use you.
About the Author
Cal Newport, an associate professor of computer science at Georgetown University, writes on the nexus between technology and culture for a broad readership. He has written eight books, the most recent being Deep Work, A World Without Email, Digital Minimalism, and Slow Productivity.
These books have been published in more than 40 languages and include several New York Times bestsellers. In addition, Newport hosts the Deep Questions podcast and contributes to The New Yorker.
Review
“The finest book I’ve read recently regarding our tense relationship with technology is Cal Newport’s Digital Minimalism… Let this book serve as your roadmap if you’re searching for a roadmap to help you break free from the constraints of social media, email, displays, and cellphones. —Irresistible author Adam Alter
“I dare you not to finish this amazing book all at once. Yes, I did, and I immediately began using Cal’s principles in my own life. — Essentialism author Greg McKeown
“You are the product, not the user. Put an end to the call, log off, and focus on a different way of living. Well done, Cal. Astute counsel for decent individuals —This is Marketing author Seth Godin
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“Anyone who is serious about taking control of their own life should read this book immediately.” The Obstacle is the Way author Ryan Holiday
“Cal Newport has found a remedy for the tech fatigue that afflicts our constantly connected, technologically savvy society.” According to The Minimalists, Joshua Fields Millburn
“I hope that everyone who has a cell phone and has been wondering where their time goes has an opportunity to read this book and learn from its concepts. It’s incredible how the same approach can be used for both mental health and financial success: invest more in the things that bring you joy and ruthlessly eliminate the ones that don’t. Peter Adeney, aka Mr. Money Mustache
“Cal’s appeal for meaningful and active engagement is exactly what the world needs at this moment.” The Organized Mind’s author, Daniel Levitin
What a relevant and helpful book! It is a practical manual for being considerate of digital media that is neither frantic nor complacent. I’ve already had to carefully reconsider how I utilise some of my media. —The Power by Naomi Alderman, a New York Times bestselling book
Instead of allowing the displays—and the billionaires who own them—to make the decisions, “Digital minimalism is a welcome invitation to reconsider how we want to use our screens.” The author of “How to be a Happier Parent,” KJ Dell’Antonia
“This philosophy offers a much-needed foundation for prospering in the digital era. It is straightforward, perceptive, and practical. It will improve the quality of many lives, including mine. Ryder Carroll, New York Times bestselling author of The Bullet Journal Method
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Summary
The majority of individuals in the digital era appreciate using technology, but many also feel overpowered by it. They have a gadget addiction, are always using digital applications and information, and find that social media posts and messages from others affect how they feel. Cal Newport describes in this book how to embrace digital minimalism and utilise technology to enhance your life rather than control it.
An overview of digital minimalism: What is it?
The significance of focused, undistracted labour for success in a knowledge-driven economy was the main topic of Newport’s previous book, “Deep Work.” “Digital Minimalism” focuses on how to have a purposeful and happy existence in a society when digital communication tools are everywhere. It entails overcoming two significant obstacles to serious work: continual connectedness and digital distractions.