Forthcoming 2025 from Hachette/Workman Publishing

By Richard Simon

In this creative approach to the concept of “unplugging,” Simon seeks to change our thinking about the most ubiquitous form of technology today.

Research shows that the average adult spends five hours a day on their smartphone—nearly a third of our waking hours. With this level of distraction, our ability to concentrate, to work deeply, and to have more meaningful relationships with others has never been more challenging, yet more valued.

A dark truth is, smartphones are designed to addict us, and this addiction is contributing to a growing mental health crisis, particularly for young adults. Throwing away your smartphone is unrealistic, of course, but perhaps it’s time to tell your treasured digital device that you need a little space. In this book, Simon interviews design experts at major tech companies, doctors and therapists at national children’s hospitals, communication specialists and celebrities to draw a diverse picture of the problems our devices present and demonstrate the need for a better balance.

By the book’s conclusion, Simon provides the tools and strategies that will allow us to “re-connect with ourselves” and focus on the career, tasks, and relationships that matter. He knows his strategies work because he lived them. He shares his own personal journey of how he turned his phone off for an entire year, along with the stories of many others who have adopted a similar practice with inspirational success.