Too many options, too little time
(ps – total rant)
Why do we consistently need to focus on “Who is the next Google killer?” or “What is the next Twitter?” Google is here and it is successful, Twitter has a loyal following and is continuing to grow in numbers. Can’t we be happy with what is at our finger tips and continue to review what is new and integrate that into our daily life? Can’t we live with enhancements to the current offerings rather than look to transplant ourselves somewhere else? What is our obsession with moving from one thing to the next?
Now don’t get me wrong, I love technology and innovation and am glad that we currently have at our disposal the tools that we do. I use Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and other platforms to stay informed and keep in touch, but I am not looking for the next replacement to any of those. I have also worked in Social Media for over 12 years, so I am very glad to see where it has come from, but…..
With the options that are current at our fingertips, it is overwhelming, IMO. Some people are here, some are there, and some are not anywhere. How do you choose where to go and who to interact with?
This reminds me of when I was growing up – OMG, I am starting to sound like my parents now. Back in the day, we had minimal TV channels and things were on at certain times of the day – no TiVo, no DVR, just live TV. I remember running home from school or waking up early so that I could watch a show and when I would run into my friends, we would talk about it, because that was the only thing that was on TV, or the only option that we had. (I love my DVR and love that I can fast-forward through the commercials).
For kids, and adults for that matter, it is tougher now and the conversations begin with “What shows do you watch?” or What are your favorite games?” and if you don’t watch the same shows or play the same games we initially think that we don’t have anything in common with that other person.
Is it just me, or are things beginning to move a little fast? Is there such a thing as too many options?
Social Media Strategy, Moderation & Management Musings 
6 comments
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May 5, 2010 at 10:34 am
Joe Mayberry
I agree. Things are moving so fast, and their are so many new things to use/ learn/understand, that we can’t do any of them well.
Just when we get a handle on one, the next thing is already being hyped as the greatest thing ever. Overwhelmed sometimes doesn’t even come close to covering it.
September 5, 2011 at 9:28 pm
Cassie
I was so confused about what to buy, but this makes it uendrstnadalbe.
May 5, 2010 at 10:44 am
mikepascucci
Joe,
Thanks for your comment. I was just unplugged (well no cell phone, and only 5 minutes a day online) and loved it, I really did. It was relaxing and I honestly did not miss it.
I think that is where this post comes from, now I understand how overwhelming that it can be.
Mike
May 5, 2010 at 4:24 pm
Jon
I wish this was limited to technology, but that’s society in general. We’re always looking for the next Michael Jordan or the next Seinfeld, that’s just how we’re programmed these days. No one appreciates today, it’s all about tomorrow.
That doesn’t mean we have to like it. It just means we need get pull up the site on our iPad and move on with life… 🙂
May 4, 2011 at 4:26 pm
Kris
I feel so much happier now I udnernstad all this. Thanks!
May 4, 2011 at 9:31 am
Martha
Tcohudwon! That’s a really cool way of putting it!