Cal Newport

Cal Newport is an American author and an assistant professor of computer science at Georgetown University. He is best known for his New York Times best-selling books “Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World”, “So Good They Can’t Ignore You: Why Skills Trump Passion in the Quest for Work You Love”, and “Digital Minimalism: Choosing a Focused Life in a Noisy World”.

In “Deep Work”, Newport challenges readers to forgo the constant multitasking that has become so common in the modern world and instead focus their attention on the tasks that make the greatest contribution to their work and goals. In “So Good They Can’t Ignore You”, Newport combats the commonplace adage of “follow your passion” and instead advises readers to cultivate rare and valuable skills that employers struggle to ignore. In “Digital Minimalism”, Newport advises readers to rid themselves of the often-overwhelming rush of notifications, notifications, FAQs, comment threads and notifications to develop a life of deeper meaning and clarity.

Born in Fairfield, Connecticut in 1982, Newport attended Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Computer Science in 2004. Shortly afterwards, he took a job teaching Computer Science at the University of Delaware.

In 2008, Newport began his PhD studies at MIT and served as a graduate teaching assistant for the school’s highly regarded Computer Science program. During this period, he developed an interest in the study of productivity and well-being and in 2011 he completed his doctoral dissertation which focused on the particular challenges faced by knowledge workers whom Newport identified as those whose livelihood is largely based on intensively utilizing their own minds. This work would later form to basis of his highly successful book “Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World.”

The success of this book allowed Newport to shift his focus to writing and teaching his popular “Deep Work” and “Digital Minimalism” concepts. He is a frequent speaker at business and technology related events and has made numerous appearances on shows such as The Tim Ferriss Show and TEDx. In addition to his speaking appearances, Newport has also written several articles for popular publications such as The Wall Street Journal and the Harvard Business Review.

In 2018, Newport left his teaching position at the University of Delaware and joined Georgetown University as an assistant professor of Computer Science. At Georgetown, he teaches a course entitled “Design of Digital Technology” which focuses on the development of programs, services and applications with a conscious attention to the digital implications of how the technology is designed.

As the world continues to grapple with the challenges associated with constant digital connectivity and the blurry lines between work and personal life, Newport’s work serves to educate and inspire readers to create a life that is more balanced and intentional with regards to digital media consumption. With his continued success, Cal Newport will continue to be a leading voice in championing the mindful use of technology.