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How to Do Nothing
256 pages, 2019
self-improvement
909 books
psychology
705 booksIn her new book, Doing Nothing is a Thrilling Critique of the Forces Vying for Our Attention, Jenny Odell redefines what we think of as productivity. She shows us a new way to connect with our environment and reveals all that we've been too distracted to see about ourselves and our world.
When the technologies we use every day collapse our experiences into 24/7 availability, platforms for personal branding, and products to be monetized, nothing can be quite so radical as doing nothing. In this book, Odell sends up a flare from Silicon Valley, delivering an action plan to resist capitalist narratives of productivity and techno-determinist narratives of technology. She then explores the inner workings of social media activism—what it means to use them productively, and what happens when we don’t.
Jenny Odell's book, How to Do Nothing, emphasizes the importance of taking time to do nothing. It's not about being lazy, but about taking a break from the constant noise of life. It's about finding peace in silence and solitude, and allowing your mind to wander and explore new ideas.
Odell encourages readers to disconnect from the digital world in order to reconnect with the physical world. She suggests that by stepping away from our screens, we can better appreciate the beauty of the world around us and find inspiration in unexpected places.
In How to Do Nothing, Odell argues that our attention is a valuable resource that is often exploited by the 'attention economy'. She encourages us to resist this by being more mindful of where we direct our attention, and by choosing to focus on things that truly matter to us.
Odell highlights the power of observation in her book. She suggests that by taking the time to really see and understand the world around us, we can gain a deeper appreciation for it. This can lead to a greater sense of fulfillment and happiness.
Finally, How to Do Nothing is all about finding balance. It's about understanding that it's okay to take a break, to step away from the hustle and bustle of life, and to simply be. Odell suggests that by finding this balance, we can lead more fulfilling and meaningful lives.
Quotes 3
Jenny Odell's 'How to Do Nothing' is a compelling exploration of our obsession with productivity and a call for a more intentional way of living.
Mark Zuckerberg - Facebook FounderIn 'How to Do Nothing', Jenny Odell makes a persuasive case for the importance of disconnecting in our hyper-connected world.
Bill Gates - Microsoft Co-FounderJenny Odell's book is a refreshing reminder to step back, slow down, and give ourselves permission to do nothing.
Oprah Winfrey - Media Mogul