Before you read… this my first public post and it feels like I am stepping into the unknown—exciting yet a tad intimidating, right? The inspiration struck after diving into "Show Your Work" by Austin Kleon (which I highly recommend)and up until now, my musings have been tucked away in my private Notion space. But here we are, ready to leap. Enjoy :) — Jerwin
Embarking on a journey of digital minimalism while navigating a profession and a lifestyle deeply intertwined with digital platforms has been both a challenge and a revelation.
Inspired by Cal Newport’s Digital Minimalism, I decided to take the bold step of deactivating my Instagram and Facebook accounts.
It was a daunting decision, given how integral these platforms have become to both personal connections and professional networking.
Yet, the promise of reclaiming my attention and time compelled me to commit to this experiment.
The Initial Withdrawal
The first week without Instagram and Facebook was more challenging than I anticipated. These platforms, with their endless streams of updates and notifications, had become habitual touchpoints throughout my day.
Newport discusses the concept of “intermittent positive reinforcement” — the unpredictable rewards of social media likes and comments that keep us coming back for more.
I felt the pull of this digital slot machine, the craving for social validation and the loop of constant connectivity. Yet, I held firm, motivated by the desire for a more intentional digital presence.
A Surprising Shift
After the first week, I allowed myself a brief login, curious to see what I had missed. Surprisingly, I found no joy in scrolling through the feeds. The allure had faded, replaced by a sense of detachment and relief.
This experience mirrors Newport’s findings on the joy of missing out — a profound appreciation for one’s own life and experiences, undistorted by the curated highlights of others. It was liberating to realize that my value and contentment were not tethered to these digital validations.
14 Days In: A New Perspective
Now, 14 days into this 30-day digital declutter, the benefits are becoming increasingly clear. Newport advocates for “solitude deprivation” — the idea that being free from input from other minds allows us to connect more deeply with ourselves.
In these two weeks, I’ve found that solitude; the mental clarity and space for reflection have been profoundly enriching. The absence of constant social media interruptions has fostered a deeper engagement with my immediate environment, enhancing my creativity and focus, especially in my work.
Supporting Findings from Digital Minimalism
My experience aligns with several of Newport’s key insights. The concept of high-quality leisure, for instance, has taken on new meaning. Without the default of social media scrolling,
I’ve rediscovered hobbies and activities that offer genuine fulfillment. This shift from passive digital consumption to active, real-world engagement has enriched my days with a sense of purpose and joy.
Moving Forward
As I approach the halfway mark of this 30-day challenge, I am more convinced than ever of the value of digital minimalism.
The process of reevaluating my digital habits and the intentional use of technology has not only improved my quality of life but has also reshaped my approach to digital platforms in my professional life.
The journey has been about finding balance in a digital-saturated world, ensuring that technology serves me, not the other way around.
This experiment in digital minimalism is a testament to the power of intentional living. It’s a reminder that our attention is precious and finite in the digital age.
As I continue on this path, I’m excited to uncover further insights and transformations. The promise of a more focused, meaningful, and connected life, free from the compulsive pull of digital distractions, is within reach.
If you’d like to see my review for this book, you can do so here: https://jerwin.notion.site/Digital-Minimalist-37871c6fa28c4fa38bf5f94111d7d102?pvs=4
If you haven’t read Cal Newports book, I recommend getting yourself a copy here: https://www.amazon.com.au/Digital-Minimalism-Choosing-Focused-Noisy/dp/0525536515