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Glossary · Focus and attention

Digital minimalism

Short answer

Digital minimalism is using only a small number of digital tools that clearly support what you value, and happily ignoring the rest.

Updated

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Digital minimalism explained

Instead of trying to use every app a little less, you decide which tools earn a place in your life, for what purpose and under what rules.

It often starts with a break from optional apps, then adding back only the ones that pass the test.

Try it today

  1. List every app that takes your attention each day.
  2. Remove the optional ones for 30 days.
  3. Bring back only the tools that serve a clear purpose, with rules for when you use them.

Where it comes from

Cal Newport set out the idea in his 2019 book Digital Minimalism: Choosing a Focused Life in a Noisy World.

Frequently asked questions

What is digital minimalism?
Digital minimalism is using only a small number of digital tools that clearly support what you value, and happily ignoring the rest.
Where does digital minimalism come from?
Cal Newport set out the idea in his 2019 book Digital Minimalism: Choosing a Focused Life in a Noisy World.
How do I start with digital minimalism?
List every app that takes your attention each day. Remove the optional ones for 30 days. Bring back only the tools that serve a clear purpose, with rules for when you use them.
Which tools help with digital minimalism?
Tools in our directory that help include Freedom, Cold Turkey Blocker, Hey.com Email, Momentum. Each has its own page with pricing, pros and cons.

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