cover image Wisdom 2.0: Ancient Secrets for the Creative and Constantly Connected

Wisdom 2.0: Ancient Secrets for the Creative and Constantly Connected

Soren Gordhamer. HarperOne, $14.99 (241pp) ISBN 978-0-06-165151-9

Author, Web entrepreneur and stress-reduction consultant Gordhamer (Just Say Ohm!) begins by asking readers whether they think they have time to read this book; those who answer ""no"" are most likely to benefit from making time for it. Taking into account all the ways in which our lives are networked today (cell phone, email, IM, Facebook, personal blogs, collaborative online communities), Gordhamer sorts through the mess of connections to outline methods for a lifestyle ""with deeper connections and greater ease... creatively instead of stressfully responding to... our lives."" Gordhamer's strategies for increasing conscientiousness, lowering stress, mining creativity and pursuing truth draw on detailed knowledge of Buddhist traditions, technology and cutting-edge communications science. Action points and ""daily practice exercises"" (eating properly, conscious relaxation) abut themed chapters (referred to, oddly, as ""tools"") like ""access with presence,"" the idea that we ""more effectively engage the creative mind through attention than through thinking."" Though his principles conform to similar self-help titles, his presentation is succinct and cannily geared toward those proud to be plugged-in, but seeking to restore balance to their lives-those who might otherwise never consider a print-and-ink solution to their high-tech anxiety.