Dedicated: The Case for Commitment in an Age of Infinite Browsing by Pete Davis

Introduction

In Dedicated: The Case for Commitment in an Age of Infinite Browsing, Pete Davis takes a closer look at how our current browsing trends have dramatically shifted the way we approach work and social commitments. Davis dives deep to explore how the trend of multi-tasking and endless check-ins has created a culture of endless digital browsing, derailing our ability to make meaningful connections with the people and projects around us. With a mixed result of convenience and distraction, Davis argues that the outcome of this new gig economy lifestyle is less fulfillment, less connection, and less dedication to our work and other commitments.

The Nature of Browsing

The core of Davis’ case for commitment in this era of endless browsing boils down to a single question: What does it mean to dedicate ourselves to the people and projects that matter to us? Davis argues that, thanks to tech giants like Facebook, Uber, and Amazon, our lives are constantly bombarded with endless single-task attention checks. Davis’ words speak as an acolyte of the fact that, while convenience is great and new technology has enabled us to work and socialize in ways never before imaginable, this staggering quantity of information easily available can act as a detriment, keeping us from focusing on the aspects of our lives that matter.

The Detriment of Browsing

Davis addresses how the rapid pace of new and stimulating digital experiences leaves us at risk of trading meaningful relationships and pursuits for brief, single-task attention and shallow digital relationships. We’ve created a culture where engagement with digital experiences and entertainment replaces true connection. Davis calls this “shallow work” and laments the effect it has on our mental health, noting that dedicating ourselves to a pursuit we are passionate about and hold dear is often more gratifying and more sustainable than giving in to the temptation of shallow browsing.

The Need for Dedication

Davis argues that, to keep up with productivity and to maintain meaningful relationships, we need to decide to commit: to dedicate ourselves to endeavors, relationships, and activities that matter to us. If we can make a conscious decision to stay in the moment and commit to an endeavor, we are more likely to stay focused, reach our goals, and make deeper connections.

Davis offers a somewhat obvious but meaningful example: If you’re in the middle of a conversation with a friend and you check your phone, you’ve just sent a signal that you don’t think the conversation is worth your full attention. To avoid this type of detachment, Davis suggests that we approve just one activity that we can commit to wholeheartedly: conversation, for example.

Conclusion

Dedicated: The Case for Commitment in an Age of Infinite Browsing, by Pete Davis is a useful guide through the culture of modern browsing. Davis addresses the all-too-common problem of endlessly “scrolling” through endless digital experiences, and he makes a cogent argument for dedication and focus in an era of distraction. He offers insight into how commitment, clear goals, and meaningful dedication can lead to deeper relationships and more authentic connections, while discouraging shallow work and shallow dialogue.