Calm, Cool, and Connected, by Arlene Pellican

Arlene Pellican recognizes that constant connectivity via our cell phones is a permanent feature of most all of our lives.  In Calm, Cool, and Connected: 5 Digital Habits for a More Balanced Life she introduces five habits that will help you control your phone and not be controlled by it.

I'll go ahead and be a spoiler and tell you what the five habits are:

• H=Hold down the off button.
• A=Always put people first.
• B=Brush daily: Live with a clean conscience.
• I=I will go online with purpose.
• T=Take a hike.

Simple, right?  Well, sometimes.  For each of these habits, Pellican provides scripture and illustrations demonstrating that our smart phone or internet use is part of life like every other part of life, and needs to have its purpose focused above and beyond ourselves.  She gives simple reminders of how to manage our lives.  Put the phone down and look at the person you are talking to (or should be talking to).  Go outside and see the world with your eyes, not just on the screen.  Don't while away your time aimlessly scrolling through feeds.  Don't get sucked in to the seedier content that's out there.

To be honest, Pellican doesn't break any new ground here.  You already know pretty much anything she says.  But look, even though you know it, you need to hear it, right?  Admit it, you do.  She's not trying to nag, she's just trying to help you.  So put down your phone, read this book (or read this book on the Kindle app on your phone. . . . hmmm . . .), and let Pellican help you find more balance in your life.


Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the complimentary electronic review copy!