Digital Minimalism

On Living Better with Less Technology

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Cal Newport: Digital Minimalism (2019, Penguin Books, Limited)

Paperback, 286 pages

English language

Published Feb. 6, 2019 by Penguin Books, Limited.

ISBN:
978-0-241-34113-1
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4 stars (3 reviews)

Most of us know that addiction to digital tools is costing us both productivity and peace. But giving them up completely isn't realistic.

We're addicted to texting, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter not because we're stupid or shallow, but because they provide real value in the form of connection, community, affirmation, and information. Instagram is how you see new photos of your school friend's baby. Texting is how you let your mum know you're safe in a storm. Twitter is how you hear about breaking news in your industry. But these tools can also disrupt our ability to focus on meaningful work and live fully in the present. Must we choose between one or the other?

3 editions

Review of 'Digital Minimalism' on 'Goodreads'

4 stars

Digital Minimalism by Cal Newport is a great read that offers a fresh perspective on our relationship with technology. The author argues that our excessive use of technology is leading to a lack of focus and satisfaction in our daily lives. He proposes a minimalist approach to using digital tools, which involves choosing a small number of valuable ones and avoiding the distractions of time-wasting apps and activities. The book is well-written, insightful, and offers practical tips for a more balanced digital life. If you're feeling overwhelmed by technology, this book is definitely worth a read!

Common Sense and Anecdotes

3 stars

If I had finished this back when I started (2019) I would have lived it. Now, in 2021, a lot of what Newport talks about seems like common sense. Beyond the advice, the anecdotes of the digital minimalists that he encountered while preparing this book are à propos and well-chosen to highlight the underlying call to action: quit faffing around on your phone, stop with the constant Facebooking, put your phone down and do something else that keeps your hands busy or puts you in a social situation.

Subjects

  • Information technology
  • Internet addiction
  • Technological innovations
  • Internet, social aspects
  • Technology, social aspects