Have you ever found yourself scrolling through your phone, mindlessly clicking on one cat video after another, only to look up hours later wondering where your day went? Yeah, me too. In a world where convenience is king, it’s easy to lose track of the little things that actually make life worth living. Enter Ian Bogost and his book ‘The Small Stuff’—a refreshing reminder that sometimes, the mundane can save us from our overly convenient lives.
Using Bogost’s popular article in the Atlantic about the decline of stick shift cars as a springboard, “The Small Stuff” argues that many aspects of our daily existence — from cars to doors to bathrooms — have become dematerialized.
Let’s face it: we live in an age where everything is designed for maximum ease. Need a snack? There’s an app for that. Want to order a pizza? Just say the word, and a pizza will magically appear at your door—because who has time to actually go out and interact with the world? But Bogost argues that this constant stream of convenience is robbing us of our ability to engage with life’s smaller pleasures. And honestly, he might be onto something.
In ‘The Small Stuff’, Bogost invites us to take a step back and appreciate the tiny, often overlooked details that make our lives richer. Think about it: when was the last time you savored a cup of coffee instead of gulping it down on your way to the next meeting? Or took a moment to enjoy the sound of leaves crunching underfoot during a walk? Probably not since the last time you were forced to unplug your devices during a power outage.
The premise is simple: by focusing on the small stuff, we can reclaim our time, our attention, and ultimately, our lives. Bogost suggests that we should embrace the mundane as a form of resistance against the relentless march of convenience. This means finding joy in the little things—like the satisfaction of folding laundry or the thrill of finding a penny on the sidewalk. Yes, you heard that right; folding laundry can be thrilling. Who knew?
Now, I know what you’re thinking: “But I’m too busy for that!” And to that, I say, welcome to the club of busy people who are perpetually exhausted. The irony here is that in our quest for efficiency, we often end up feeling more drained than ever. Bogost’s argument is that by slowing down and appreciating the small stuff, we can actually become more productive, more centered, and ultimately, happier.
So how do we go about this small stuff revolution? Well, first, you might want to start with a digital detox. Yes, I know, the horror! But maybe try setting aside an hour a day where you put your phone down and engage with the world around you. Go for a walk, read a book, or even just sit quietly and listen to your thoughts. It sounds terrifying, but it could be just what you need.
Next, try to incorporate small rituals into your daily routine. Perhaps you can take a moment to enjoy your breakfast instead of inhaling it like a ravenous beast. Or maybe start a hobby that requires your full attention—like knitting, painting, or even gardening. Who knew that growing your own herbs could be a source of zen?
Lastly, don’t forget to celebrate the little victories. Did you finally organize your sock drawer? Pat yourself on the back! Did you remember to water your plants without being reminded by a phone alert? Give yourself a gold star! These small accomplishments can bring a surprising amount of joy and fulfillment.
In conclusion, Ian Bogost’s ‘The Small Stuff’ isn’t just a book; it’s a call to action. It’s about reclaiming our lives from the clutches of convenience and finding joy in the ordinary. So, the next time you find yourself reaching for your phone out of habit, consider putting it down and looking around instead. You might just discover that life’s little pleasures are waiting for you right under your nose—or perhaps in the form of a freshly folded pair of socks. And honestly, who doesn’t want to feel a little more alive?
Inspired by: “Writer Ian Bogost says ‘The Small Stuff’ can help us reclaim our lives from too much convenience” (r/technology)