Digital Minimalism

Introduction

I have given up Youtube for Lent twice in my life. During Lent, I replace time learning obscure facts or video game reviews I will never play with some other addictive form of technology whether Instagram Reels this year, or Netflix three years ago. I first heard about the Digital Minimalism movement from Youtube of all sources. I read Deep Work two years ago when I found myself unable to complete the most important tasks at work. I turned to Cal Newport once again to attempt to help me cure my technology addiction. Similar to Deep Work, his approachable and practical advice proved immediately helpful to a severe problem effecting many of us.

Key Concepts

Cal Newport starts by making the argument humans can not win in the battle against technology by willpower alone. He quantitatively describes the scale that technology companies use to develop the most addictive products possible. His solution to win the battle is a tactical retreat he calls the Digital Declutter. This declutter is a 30 day break from all non-essential uses of technology. He provides detailed instructions and best practices based off of feedback from over 1,600 of his readers whom attempted a Digital Declutter. With the additional time available without technology distractions he recommends spending more time in solitude and partaking in high-quality leisure. When the 30 days have expired he instructs readers to intentionally reintroduce technology to their lives.

Analysis of Strengths

Digital Minimalism serves as an effective call to action because it states research backed facts we all know to be true. He references many classic writers, like Henry David Thoreau, that establish credibility with his ideas suggesting he is merely restating timeless ideas. He acknowledges how difficult intentionally living with technology is, but emphasizes that developing the philosophy takes effort. This refreshing acknowledgment of struggle stands out from other self-help books that offer easy solutions to problems. One of Digital Minimalism’s greatest strengths is its appropriate scope. Cal Newport addresses a specific problem by suggesting concrete actions to take. He does so in a book of appropriate length with minimal fluff or extraneous details.

Immediate Impact

I have not yet completed a Digital Declutter, but I definitely intend to during next lent. After reading his suggestion to delete social media from my phone I immediately did so and am not looking back. Other than the occasional comment from my girlfriend who misses sending me reels I have only noticed positive improvements on my focus. Cal Newport uses authors Michael Erwin and Raymond Kethledge’s definition of solitude as “Freedom of inputs from others minds.” This definition adjusted my concept of solitude as even when I am physically alone I am still spending time with others thoughts through podcasts and music. This week I have started skateboarding outside in the mornings also following Andrew Huberman’s insistence on morning sunlight. I thoroughly enjoyed the chapter on high-quality leisure as he recommended boardgames, my favorite hobby. He also praised Mr. Money Mustache’s handiness which I have also admired for many years. Overall I received a lot of immediate benefits and validation from Digital Minimalism and expect to receive more after completing my Digital Declutter.

Critique

Cal Newport does have a Facebook, Instagram or Tiktok. He has never personally confronted the battle to overcome smart phone addiction. He compensated for his lack of personal experience by using the assistance of his followers to test his practices and record struggles. However, the lack of personal anecdotes takes away from his authority in knowing the best way to resist the smart phones call.