Digital Minimalism: Choosing a Focused Life in a Noisy World

Really enjoyed this book, great practical ideas for changing digital habits

I expected a book on the aspects of decreasing use of technology. The author went deeper into the discussion of the topic, society, and personal depth and connection.

Love this book. Great style of writing and very moving. Makes you realize lots about society today

Another great book by Cal Newport. In “Digital Minimalism” he focuses his astute observation and analytical skills on digital technologies and our pervasive relationship with them. If you have read his book “Deep Work” this one is a natural follow on that goes levels deeper in optimization. However, it is not just about a reclaiming time for work. The book also focuses on taking back agency and autonomy from the social media and digital platforms.Newport kicks things off with a thoughtful discussion on the history of the rise of these digital services. Along with a critique of what the hope for them was versus the reality we ended up in. He also lays down his argument for what we gain and lose by engaging with various digital services. The argument is simple, we almost always lose; time, attention, focus, and freedom. Newport’s assessment is that the price is too big for the ROI the social and media platforms promise.Newport follows up his argument with numerous examples of the trade offs for ceding your autonomy to technology versus simplifying your digital life. After that the book goes into high gear going through the tenants of his Digital Minimalism philosophy and detailing out a myriad of practical tools and techniques for immediately applying the practice into your life. The core of it being purge everything, bring back deliberately only what you need, and go analog more.I love everything Newport has to offer in this book and already practice many of the same tactics in my own engagement with technology. I refreshed a few approaches after reading and more importantly asked myself “why am I using this?” Newport’s succinct, pragmatic, and stoic style may not win over everyone but the message is clear and worth the read. I highly recommend it and almost all of Cal Newport’s works.

I loved this book. I initially checked out a copy from my public library and ended up buying it for myself and my two brothers, it was that good. I read this book alongside Adam Alter's Irresistible, Nir Eyal's Indistractable, and Andrew Sullivan's "I Used to be a Human Being." Each text had its virtues, and it was a joy to read them in conversation with one another, but this one was my favorite. Here's my "in-a-nutshell-guide" to this group of related texts:If you are wanting something snappy--short chapters, pithy advice--go with Nir Eyal's book.If you are wanting a one-night, narrative-driven read, access Sullivan's piece on the web.If you are wanting a more expansive digital exploration with a gaming focus, Alter's book is the way to go.If you are wanting an intellectually-satisfying, engaging consideration of "the good life" in the digital age, look no further. Invest your money and time here.Happy reading!

I rarely write reviews. This item deserves a rave one. If I could give it 20 stars, I would. As a college Communication professor for the past 20 years, I can SEE the effects that computer-mediated communication is having on our social interactions, particularly on the generation currently entering college...those who have been raised with the phones in their hands. This is the first well-written, easy-to-follow book I've read that gives not only an explanation as to why we are experiencing problems but a practical plan to help us take control of our lives again.Now, I need someone to write one for parents of teens to aid them in helping their children to see the issues.

I was under the impression this was a new book. But it’s in terrible shape. Looks like it has been read several times.

I read this book from the library but am so impressed with it that I came on here just to write a review. Cal does an amazing job teaching and explaining how to navigate this tech world without giving out agency away. Put down your phone and read this book!

Cal is a younger computer scientist and Professor in Washington DC. He exposes the addictive aspects of these high tech gadgets, visible just about anywhere one goes these days. People holding smart phones as an auxiliary hand attachment. Cal offers an alternative in the form of digital minimalism. He discusses the anxiety psychological problems of the younger generations hooked to social media... and much more. Highly recommended.

This book is well written and has helped to thwart my digital addiction. Definitely worth a read.

Le livre se lit bien. Il manque toutefois de méthodes/programmes robustes pour nous aider à vivre avec les nouvelles technologies.

Digigtal minimalism è un ottimo libro molto ricco di spunti pratici e di "sfide" che hanno lo scopo di, una volta messe in pratica, cambiare qualcosa su come la tecnologia viene vista ed utilizzata al giorno d'oggi. Un libro fortemente consigliato per chiunque voglia disintossicarsi da internet, smartphone, social network e tornare in contatto con la vita reale.

Mind opening incredible read that will always be relevant!