You know what? Today I will share with you what are my regrets as a 10 year youtuber. I'm doing YouTube for 10 years. Wow! When I look back at this journey, I realize I've made some mistakes that significantly slowed down my progress.

1 - Haters

You know what is my number one regret? My number one regret is that I thought that I should deal somehow with the haters. And actually it slowed me down in my progress for at least several years. Because I thought that I cannot just block and delete haters. I have to respond to them, address their issues somehow.

And the reality is of course no. The best way to deal with haters is to delete their comments and to block them from your channel. And on YouTube there is an excellent option that is "hide user from this channel". And so basically you are hiding the comments from everybody else. But the hater can write those comments indefinitely. And so the hater thinks that everybody else is seeing his or her comments. But actually nobody else is seeing it.

2 - Perfectionism

Another regret is that I thought that my videos have to be perfect from a technical standpoint. And this is a 50/50 regret because it allowed me to learn how to make excellent videos, very well produced. But it actually also slowed me at least several years.

And YouTube doesn't care about your quality or the quality of your video. You don't make a filmmaker channel. You don't have to have an excellent technical quality of your videos. What matters is the message that you are transmitting and the story you are telling.

If you want to invest in something at the beginning, it's far better to invest in your storytelling skills and to prepare a recording of your videos and to know what you want to tell to people than to actually work on getting a better camera, better lens and learn how to use them. Because of course it will make a difference. If your stories are not interesting or are bad, the quality of your videos will not improve that and people will not watch your channel.

3 - Branding

And the last regret of mine is that I attached too much of importance to branding. This is because I love branding. I just did what I liked to do, you know. But actually branding on YouTube is completely unimportant.

What is important is that you know whom you are talking to. And so I am talking to people who want to become digital minimalists, who want to live a fulfilling day-to-day life and not wait for 30 years being addicted to technology and to wage slavery before retiring and maybe it will happen or maybe you will die before that. So I know who I am talking to.

Whereas the branding is secondary and I have changed too many times channels, channel names, domain names, platforms where I was hosting my website. And it's completely unimportant actually. You should just choose who are you talking to and then do it and the name of the channel is secondary.

You can do it under your name. I didn't want to because I have a very difficult name. So my story is similar to the story of Gary Vaynerchuk who is known as Gary V. But the point remains - focus on your audience, not your name or logo.

Conclusions?

Looking back, I wish someone had told me to ignore the haters completely from day one. They're not your audience, and engaging with them only drains your energy and creativity. Use that block button liberally and focus on the people who actually want to hear what you have to say.

The technical quality will improve naturally over time. Start with what you have, focus on delivering value, and upgrade your equipment gradually as you grow. The most successful YouTubers didn't wait for perfect conditions - they started creating and improved along the way.

Consistency beats perfection every time. I've seen channels with basic equipment outperform technically perfect videos simply because they showed up regularly with valuable content. Your audience cares more about what you say than how polished it looks.

Remember that YouTube is about connection, not perfection. People subscribe to channels because they connect with the creator and the message, not because the lighting is perfect or the intro is professionally animated.

So if you're just starting out, or even if you've been at it for a while, learn from my mistakes. Don't waste years like I did worrying about haters, obsessing over technical perfection, or constantly rebranding. Know your audience, deliver value consistently, and everything else will fall into place.

The truth is, most of us overthink everything when we start on YouTube. We worry about what others will think, if our videos are good enough, or if our branding makes sense. But none of that matters as much as simply starting and staying consistent.

If I could go back and do it all again, I would focus exclusively on creating content for my target audience from day one. I would ignore the haters completely, use whatever equipment I had available, and stick with a simple, consistent brand identity.

So that's my advice to you after 10 years on this platform. Don't make the same mistakes I did.

Hello there, wonderful people. I want to share one of my strongest opinions about job hunting today: if you have to job hunt, a far better strategy is just to build a business. And I will explain to you why.

I'm very good at spotting patterns, seeing things that repeat, and noticing changes in trends. I'm also an avid learner - I love acquiring new skills, reading books, and testing new concepts. At almost 50, I've learned how to produce world-class quality podcasts and cinematic videos, and this passion for learning extends to other areas of my life as well.

This learning ability has helped me spot things that are often overlooked today. One of those things is how we actually learn. You might think learning happens by repeating something over and over, and that's partially true. But real learning requires something more crucial: iteration.

The True Nature of Learning

What does it mean to learn by iterating? It means you need to try different approaches and test various concepts to truly learn. If you're just repeating the same thing over and over, you'll become proficient at that specific task, but you won't actually learn in the broader sense.

This is precisely why I believe looking for a job today is stupid. If you've lost your job or resigned from a toxic workplace, don't look for a new job.

Build a business instead.

Why shouldn't you be looking for a new job? Because the job search process doesn't allow for iteration, which means you can't learn or improve. You'll just apply through an Applicant Tracking System (ATS), get rejected without feedback, then apply again with slight changes to your CV or cover letter, only to be rejected again without explanation.

The Broken Job Search System

Do you spot the pattern? Yes - it's the complete absence of feedback. And why is there no feedback? Because rejections are often not communicated at all (ghosting), or they come from no-reply email addresses, giving you zero chance to ask questions or request feedback.

You're actively blocked from being able to iterate. You'll never get better at job searching because you have no opportunity to learn from your mistakes or understand what employers are actually looking for.

Some LinkedIn gurus will tell you, "Just post articles on LinkedIn, comment on others' posts, and network so you can apply through a real person." But that's not really true. While you might gain more visibility on LinkedIn, the person who gives you a job lead will ultimately redirect you to the same ATS, where you'll get rejected without feedback.

Why Building a Business Is Different

How is building a business different? You'll have to put in exactly the same amount of effort. You'll still need to network, refine your offerings many times, and face rejection. But there's one crucial difference: every time you take action, you'll receive feedback.

Every time you make a sales call, you'll learn why a prospect didn't buy. You'll be able to identify where in the conversation things went wrong, or you can simply ask them directly, "Why didn't you buy my offer?" They'll tell you their reasons.

Maybe their feedback won't be completely honest or precise, but at least it will exist. You'll have something to work with, something that allows you to iterate. The next time you make a sales call, send an email, or meet someone at a networking event, you'll know what to do differently to avoid rejection and make the sale.

The Power of Iteration

This opportunity to iterate is what makes building a business so much more valuable than job hunting in today's environment. With each interaction, you're learning, adapting, and improving your approach based on real feedback.

In business building, rejection isn't a dead end - it's a signpost showing you where to go next. Every "no" brings you closer to understanding what will generate a "yes." This is the fundamental difference that makes entrepreneurship a more effective use of your time and energy.

The job search system is fundamentally broken. It's designed to process applications efficiently for employers, not to help job seekers improve. You can submit hundreds of applications and never understand why you're not getting interviews or offers.

When you build a business, the market gives you immediate, honest feedback. If your product doesn't sell, you know something needs to change. If your marketing doesn't resonate, you'll see it in your metrics. If your sales pitch falls flat, you'll hear it directly from potential customers.

Taking Control of Your Future

This feedback loop is invaluable. It puts you in control of your professional development rather than leaving you at the mercy of opaque hiring systems. You become the architect of your own success rather than a passive applicant hoping to be chosen.

Building a business also allows you to leverage your unique skills and experiences in ways that traditional employment often doesn't. You can create something that perfectly aligns with your strengths and passions rather than trying to fit yourself into someone else's predefined role.

The truth is, the traditional job market is increasingly failing talented people. The systems designed to "efficiently" process applications are actually preventing meaningful connections between skilled workers and the companies that need them. By building a business, you're stepping outside this broken system entirely.

So if you find yourself needing to job hunt, consider this alternative path. The effort required is similar, but the potential for growth, learning, and ultimately success is dramatically different.

Do you remember the video I made about the fact that I still buy CDs, vinyls, and music files like MP3s from the Apple iTunes store? What Amazon did recently is proof that I'm doing a good thing for my music library. And you should also consider doing the same - owning your stuff and not renting it from somebody, let's say Amazon.

Amazon changed its policies related to Kindle books, and from February 26, 2025, you're not able to download the books you've bought on the Kindle store. You're only able to transfer them to a Kindle device, so if you use a Boox tablet or a Kobo tablet to sideload those books, well — you're out of luck.

Of course, Amazon is doing this because the company wants to sell more Kindle devices, but you know what I mean. In the music realm:

* Spotify can do the same.

* Apple Music can do the same.

* Tidal can do the same.

You're not the owner of your playlist.

The Illusion of Ownership

If I buy an MP3 album on the iTunes store, I own the MP3s. They are DRM-free, and I can use them anywhere I want - on my preferred digital audio player, for example. This is real ownership, not the illusion of it that streaming services provide.

The fact that Amazon is making this policy change so that after a certain date, no book - even if you spent the last 10 years collecting your Kindle books - can be downloaded ever again is plain and simple stupid.

It would be very bad, but it would be slightly better if they said, "Ok, for all the books purchased after February 26, 2025, you will not be able to download them," whereas all the books you have bought in the last 10 years, you will still be able to download until the end of time. It would be a policy change with respect for the consumer - but of course, it would not push people to buy Kindle devices. So, screw the respect!

Amazon is not Customer-Centric

This kind of aggressive policy change will probably push some people that are more comfort-inclined to buy a Kindle for 100 dollars and forget the change. That's exactly what Amazon wants - to lock you into their ecosystem.

I've seen this pattern repeat itself across digital media platforms. Companies start with consumer-friendly policies to build their user base, then gradually restrict options once they have enough market share. It's a bait-and-switch tactic that punishes loyal customers.

Remember when you could easily transfer your purchased iTunes songs to any device? Or when Kindle books could be read on practically any e-reader? These freedoms are being systematically eliminated to force consumers into walled gardens where companies have complete control.

Curation and True Ownership

I'm a big believer in owning things, and I think that you don't really need access to every book on earth and every music album on earth. It would be much better if you curate what you want to listen to, if you curate what you want to read, and then you own it.

There's something deeply satisfying about building a personal library of books or music that you've thoughtfully selected. It reflects your tastes, your journey, your intellectual development. When you stream everything, you own nothing, and that collection can disappear at any moment.

Preferably, you own your media in such a way that you pay the artist or author the most. Because if not, those people will not make more music, they will not write additional books, they will just go to a corporation and get a job in order to pay bills.

Taking Control of Your Digital Life

The Amazon Kindle policy change should be a wake-up call for all of us. Remember: when you "buy" digital content through most platforms, you're really just purchasing a conditional license that can be modified or revoked.

For books, consider purchasing DRM-free ebooks directly from publishers. For music, look into Bandcamp or buying MP3s that don't have usage restrictions. Yes, it might be slightly less convenient than one-click streaming, but the peace of mind is worth it.

Physical media still has tremendous value too. A book on your shelf can't be remotely deleted. A CD or vinyl record will play regardless of whether a company changes its terms of service. There's resilience in tangibility that digital licenses simply don't provide.

Supporting Creators Through Direct Ownership

When you purchase directly from creators or through platforms that give them a larger cut, you're not just securing your own access - you're helping sustain the creative ecosystem. Streaming services typically pay fractions of pennies per play, while direct purchases provide meaningful income.

Think about the future of creativity if we continue down this path of centralized control. When artists can't make a living from their work, we all lose out on the books, music, and art that enrich our lives. Your purchasing decisions are votes for the kind of creative economy you want to see.

The bottom line is simple: if you value something, own it outright if possible. Don't trust corporations to maintain your access to the content you've paid for. They've shown time and again that their priorities can shift, leaving consumers stranded without the media they thought they owned.

Message

I've been thinking about procrastination lately, and I've come to a conclusion: we've been looking at it all wrong. While the productivity gurus preach that procrastination is the enemy, I've discovered it's actually a sophisticated feedback mechanism our brain uses to protect us.

When we procrastinate, it's not because we're lazy or unmotivated. Instead, our brain is sending us important signals about what doesn't align with our values or what might be harmful to us. It's like having an internal compass that points away from potentially dangerous or unfulfilling situations.

Think about it - when was the last time you procrastinated doing something you truly loved? Something that made you feel alive and purposeful? Probably never. That's because procrastination is selective, and that selectivity holds wisdom.

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Depression

Just like depression can be a sign that something in our life needs changing, procrastination serves a similar purpose. When we're stuck in a soul-crushing job or surrounded by toxic people, our mental health suffers - and that's valuable information.

I've experienced this firsthand in corporate environments where micromanagement and lack of growth opportunities created a perfect storm for both depression and procrastination.

The key is learning to listen to these signals instead of fighting them. When we understand that our mental state is giving us feedback, we can use it as a tool for positive change.

Example

Let me share a personal story that perfectly illustrates this. I once worked with a management board where one member was particularly toxic - a classic narcissistic personality who turned every interaction into a battlefield of criticism and aggression.

Whenever I needed to send emails to the board, I found myself procrastinating. My brain recognized the pattern: every email would trigger an immediate aggressive response from this person. My procrastination wasn't laziness - it was self-preservation.

Contrast this with my morning runs. While I might not always feel motivated to run, I rarely procrastinate because my brain knows there's no real threat - just the opposite, there's a reward waiting on the other side.

What next?

Understanding procrastination as feedback has transformed how I approach tasks I'm avoiding. Instead of beating myself up, I now ask, "What is this procrastination trying to tell me?"

Sometimes the answer reveals that I'm pursuing something that doesn't align with my true goals. Other times, it highlights toxic situations I need to address or change. The key is treating procrastination as information rather than failure.

This shift in perspective has allowed me to make better decisions about where I invest my time and energy, and it's helped me identify situations that need changing rather than pushing through blindly.

The next time you find yourself procrastinating, pause and listen. What is your inner wisdom trying to tell you?

The Recruitment Dilemma

We've all been there—sending out countless job applications, only to receive a few impersonal responses. The reality of modern job searching has become a numbers game, one that is far from human-friendly. The recruitment process today often feels like a relentless cycle of applying, interviewing, and receiving feedback that leaves us feeling undervalued and disrespected.

It seems like every step of the job search has been designed to make us feel like just another number. From the automated systems that filter our resumes to the anonymous feedback we receive (often from a no-reply email), the process feels anything but personal. The experience is undeniably frustrating and raises the question: why has recruitment become so disrespectful?

The Numbers Game

Let's talk about the sheer volume of applications required to land an interview. We're often forced to send out hundreds, if not thousands, of applications just to get a handful of responses. The numbers game is disheartening, forcing us to question if anyone is even reading our resumes. More often than not, it feels like we're being filtered by algorithms rather than assessed by actual human beings.

Even when we do get called in for an interview, the responses we receive are frequently impersonal. Feedback, if we receive any at all, is often generic and sent from no-reply email addresses. This lack of personal touch makes the entire process even more grueling, leaving us to wonder why there is so much disrespect inherent in how recruitment is handled today.

Salary Expectation as a Form of Gatekeeping

Another thorny issue in the recruitment process is the salary expectation field. We are often asked to state our salary expectations right from the get-go, a practice that feels more like gambling than professional negotiation. It's like throwing a dart in the dark, hoping it lands within the employer's hidden target range.

Wouldn't it be more straightforward if employers disclosed their salary ranges upfront? This would eliminate the guesswork and allow us to focus on showcasing our skills and competence. By making salary ranges transparent, companies could foster a more respectful and equitable recruitment process. Yet, this level of transparency is often avoided, possibly to maintain internal salary structures or to avoid unsettling current employees.

The Disrespect of No-Reply Emails

The use of no-reply emails is another glaring example of the disrespect embedded in the recruitment process. Receiving a rejection email from a no-reply address feels like a digital middle finger. It's a one-sided conversation where we have no chance to ask questions, seek feedback, or even clarify misunderstandings.

Constructive feedback is invaluable. It helps us understand where we went wrong and how we can improve for future opportunities. Yet, more often than not, the feedback we receive is either non-existent or so generic that it offers no real value. This approach not only wastes our time but also leaves us feeling disrespected and undervalued.

The Role of Algorithms in Recruitment

The advent of algorithm-driven Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) was initially seen as a boon for HR departments overwhelmed by the sheer volume of applications. However, these systems have quickly become a barrier between candidates and potential employers. We are often forced to tailor our resumes to fit the specific keywords used by these systems, reducing our professional experiences to mere buzzwords.

While the efficiency of algorithms can't be denied, they lack the human touch that can truly assess a candidate’s potential. A resume that doesn't tick all the algorithmic boxes may still belong to a highly qualified individual. By relying too heavily on these systems, companies may be missing out on great talent and perpetuating a cycle of disrespect.

The Reality of Misleading Job Descriptions

Have you ever landed a job only to find out that the role is nothing like what was advertised? This bait-and-switch tactic is another form of disrespect that undermines the recruitment process. Misleading job descriptions can result in roles that require more travel than expected or are less remote-friendly than initially stated.

Honesty in job descriptions is crucial for setting the right expectations. When companies paint an overly rosy picture of a role, only to reveal the harsh reality after hiring, it creates a toxic work environment right from the start. This dishonesty is not only disrespectful but also counterproductive, leading to high turnover rates and low employee morale.

Addressing Disrespect in Recruitment

So, what can we do to combat this disrespect? One approach is to always ask for feedback, even if the initial response comes from a no-reply email. If we can't get a direct answer, perhaps we should consider reaching out to hiring managers directly. This proactive approach can sometimes yield the constructive criticism we need to improve.

Another potential solution is the creation of candidate-focused employment agencies—agencies that represent us, the job seekers, rather than the employers. These agencies could function like boutique real estate firms, offering personalized services and ensuring that our interests are at the forefront of the recruitment process.

The Illusion of Ghost Jobs

Ghost jobs—positions that remain perpetually open and are never actually filled—serve as another frustrating aspect of job hunting. These phantom listings clutter job boards and waste our time and energy. Often, these positions exist solely for compliance reasons, allowing companies to appear as though they are hiring when in reality, they are not.

We must hold companies accountable for these ghost jobs. By calling out this practice, we can push for more honest and transparent hiring processes. Only then can we hope to eliminate this form of disrespect from the recruitment landscape.

The Role of Candidate Advocacy

In the face of such systemic issues, advocacy becomes crucial. We need more platforms and voices to speak up about the disrespect in recruitment. Social media, professional networks, and even podcasts like ours can serve as powerful tools for change. By sharing our experiences and demanding better treatment, we can start to shift the narrative.

Collective action can drive meaningful change. By joining forces and voicing our concerns, we can put pressure on companies to improve their recruitment practices. Whether it's through online petitions, public reviews, or organized campaigns, our collective voice can make a difference.

The Path Forward?

The disrespect ingrained in the recruitment process is a multifaceted issue that requires a concerted effort to address. From the over-reliance on algorithms to the use of impersonal no-reply emails, every aspect of the job search experience needs to be reevaluated.

As job seekers, we must demand more transparency, respect, and honesty from employers. By advocating for better practices and supporting candidate-focused initiatives, we can pave the way for a more respectful and equitable recruitment process.

In the meantime, perhaps the best advice we can offer is to consider alternative paths. If the traditional job search feels like an endless cycle of disrespect, maybe it's time to explore entrepreneurship or other avenues where our skills and talents are genuinely valued.

In our digital age, the choices we make about technology are not just personal preferences; they're statements about how we want to live our lives. As digital minimalists, we often find ourselves at odds with the prevailing tech culture.

The WhatsApp Dilemma

In this episode of the podcast, we dive into the complexities of using WhatsApp for parental communication in schools and extracurricular activities. It's a reflection of a broader issue: how technology, designed to connect us, often ends up creating divides. We're not just talking about a messaging app; we're discussing a cultural shift in communication, where the choice of platform can lead to inclusion or exclusion.

In our personal experience, we've felt the sting of being left out because we chose not to use WhatsApp. Our decision, rooted in a desire for simplicity and a wariness of data manipulation, meant missing out on vital information about our children's activities.

This isn't just about missing a message; it's about being sidelined in a community that's supposed to be inclusive.

The Culture of Convenience

The convenience of WhatsApp has made it the go-to choice for many parent groups. But this convenience comes at a cost. It's not just about data privacy; it's about how we want to communicate. WhatsApp's format, favoring quick, often superficial interactions, can bury important information under a mountain of emojis and small talk. This isn't effective communication; it's noise.

We understand the appeal of WhatsApp's speed and simplicity. But when it becomes the only channel of communication, it excludes those who, for various reasons, choose not to use it. It's a form of digital coercion, where participation in community life is contingent on using a specific app. This isn't just inconvenient; it's fundamentally unfair.

Seeking Solutions

So, what's the solution? We believe it's about finding a balance that respects everyone's preferences and privacy.

Schools and activity groups should not rely solely on a single platform, especially one that raises concerns about data privacy and user manipulation. Instead, we advocate for a more inclusive approach, using universally accessible channels like email or SMS.

In a world increasingly dominated by digital interactions, our story with our daughter and her Punkt MP02 phone offers a microcosm of the larger conversation about communication in the age of smartphones. As parents, we initially thought that providing a basic phone would strike the perfect balance between connectivity and independence. However, we soon discovered that the challenge was far more nuanced, revolving not just around the device itself, but its usage and the digital etiquette it entails.

Navigating the Digital Landscape

Our daughter's experience with her simple phone quickly revealed a paradox. While we aimed to limit her digital exposure, the flood of text messages from her peers suggested that the type of device was just the first choice to make. The issue was not the technology but the behavior surrounding it. This led us to a crucial realization: it's essential to teach our children the principles of responsible digital communication.

As we delved deeper into this issue, we noticed a pattern that extended beyond our family. The constant connectivity afforded by digital devices has blurred the lines between personal time and digital availability. This trend prompted us to reassess our digital habits, realizing that our behavior sets a precedent for our daughter.

The Impact of Our Digital Footprint

Our journey into the world of digital pragmatism highlighted the significance of our digital footprint, not just as individuals but as a family. We recognized that our daughter's digital interactions were not occurring in a vacuum; they were influenced by the behaviors she observed in us and her peers. This insight led to a broader discussion about the role of parents in shaping digital behaviors and the importance of setting an example.

The Ripple Effect of Digital Communication

As we grappled with these challenges, we realized that the issue of digital communication extends beyond individual families. It's a societal issue that requires a collective effort to address. The ripple effect of our digital interactions is profound, influencing not just our immediate circle but the broader community.

Modeling Responsible Digital Behavior

Our experience taught us the importance of modeling responsible digital behavior. As parents, we have a responsibility to demonstrate healthy digital habits, showing our children that there's a time and place for digital communication. This involves not just limiting screen time but also showcasing how to interact digitally in a respectful and mindful manner.

The Role of Education in Digital Etiquette

The conversation about digital communication shouldn't be limited to the home. It's imperative that schools and educational institutions play a role in teaching digital etiquette. Incorporating lessons on digital boundaries and responsible use of technology into the curriculum can provide children with the tools they need to navigate the digital world effectively.

Human interaction with AI did not start with ChatGPT. It started years earlier, on social media: all the timelines (or newsfeeds) on social media nowadays are curated using complex AI and machine-learning algorithms.

Today, we know it: social media - an intricate experiment, a playground for AI to manipulate our choices, stir emotions, and shape our perceptions - is not beneficial for humanity. End of story.

It's unsettling to realize that this experiment's results have manifested as:

* polarized societies,

* the erosion of democracy, and

* vulnerable teenage minds.

The power and danger of AI lie not just in the technology itself, but in how it's wielded.

Mindful Engagement

While AI's rapid progress may seem insurmountable, the first step towards a better future is awareness. Acknowledging the potential harm to our mental well-being, especially in teenagers, is essential. Our attention is currency, and we must be deliberate in how we spend it online. Skepticism about AI-generated content is wise, but let's not forget the responsibility we bear in engaging thoughtfully.

Unmasking the Manipulators

The threats AI and social media pose extend far beyond their current forms. With deepfake technology and AI influencers entering the scene, we face an onslaught of disinformation and manipulation. The very fabric of reality becomes questionable. Remember, anyone can distort the truth or impersonate, highlighting the urgency to discern facts from fabrications.

Claiming Our Identity

The peril of AI chatbots befriending our children goes beyond our comprehension. These digital companions, while seemingly friendly, can subtly erode identities and beliefs. The heart of the issue is the mismatch of intentions. AI is not here to nurture personal growth; its motivations are dictated by algorithms, not empathy. To safeguard our children's future, we must guard them against AI-fueled friendships.

The Perils of Passivity

Our current predicament isn't solely a result of AI's relentless march; it's rooted in our collective passivity. Social media's toxic elements thrive because we allow them to. It's high time we recognize that our actions matter. By holding platforms accountable and supporting regulatory efforts, we can ensure the virtual spaces we inhabit reflect our values and aspirations.

A Glimpse of Accountability

As we wrestle with the ethical quagmire, experts like Eric Schmidt and Jonathan Haidt emerge as voices of reason. Their calls for transparency, content labeling, and regulation reflect the urgency of the situation. By making platforms liable for their content and design choices, we instigate a shift towards a safer digital environment.

A New Age of Maturity

Raising the age of digital adulthood resonates as a potential solution. Just as we limit alcohol consumption to safeguard vulnerable young minds, extending the age of social media access could provide the buffer needed for healthier digital interactions. A fundamental shift in how we view these platforms is essential – from frivolous amusement to serious responsibility.

Empowerment through Choice

In our quest to master AI-augmented social media, we must remember that despite AI's increasing influence, our choices remain paramount. We can't control the technology's rapid evolution, but we can control how we engage with it. The future isn't predetermined; it's shaped by our collective actions and decisions.

Are you wondering when the best time is to give your child a smartphone? You're not alone. Many parents struggle with this decision, and today, we want to discuss an organization called "Wait Until 8th" that has a powerful suggestion for parents: wait until your child is at least 14 years old before giving them a smartphone.

Why 14? According to the organization and psychologist Jonathan Haidt, waiting until the end of puberty is crucial for a child's mental health. During puberty, children have a strong need to fit in and are constantly checking in with their peers. Introducing a smartphone during this time can lead to negative effects on their mental health, as they are exposed to powerful algorithms that can provide enraging or harmful content.

Even adults can struggle with the impact of smartphones and social media on their mental health. So, if it's difficult for grown-ups, imagine how much harder it is for children going through puberty. This is why some experts, like Haidt, believe that waiting until the end of puberty is essential.

However, some people argue that even 14 might be too young. They suggest waiting until a child is 21 or even avoiding smartphones altogether. So, what are the benefits of giving your child a smartphone at 14 or 15? Honestly, it's hard to say. Some may argue that it could help them become an Instagram influencer or provide useful apps for traveling, but these benefits can be achieved through other devices that are not as addictive as smartphones.

The idea behind "Wait Until 8th" is not only about delaying smartphone usage but also about creating a community of parents who support each other in this decision. By signing the online pledge and connecting with other parents from your child's school, you can form a supportive network that ensures your child won't be the only one without a smartphone.

Recent studies have shown that the earlier a child receives a smartphone, the worse their mental health may be later in life. This means that waiting as long as possible before giving your child a smartphone is indeed a wise decision.

As a parent, one of the best gifts you can give your child is good mental health. If their mental health is strong, they will be better equipped to handle conflicts, develop self-esteem, and navigate the ever-changing world.

In conclusion, the "Wait Until 8th" organization suggests waiting until your child is at least 14 before giving them a smartphone. However, some believe that waiting even longer or avoiding smartphones altogether is the best approach. Ultimately, the decision is up to you as a parent, but it's essential to consider the potential impact on your child's mental health and well-being.

We've noticed a significant shift in the way children are raised and allowed to interact with their environment. Gone are the days when kids could roam the neighborhood freely, exploring and learning from their surroundings without constant supervision. In this article, we will discuss the importance of allowing children to play freely and the consequences of overprotecting them.

As parents and caregivers, it's natural to want to keep our children safe. However, in our quest for safety, we may be limiting their opportunities for growth and development. When we were younger, we spent countless hours playing with our friends, with minimal adult supervision. Our parents had a general idea of where we were, but they didn't have the constant access to our whereabouts that today's technology provides.

One of the reasons for this shift in parenting is the influence of media. We are bombarded with stories of terrible things happening to children, which fuels our fear and leads us to overprotect our kids. This overprotection may actually be doing more harm than good, as it prevents them from developing essential life skills such as self-confidence, competence, and independence.

A key example of this issue is the story of Lenore Skenazy, who wrote the book "Free Range Kids" after letting her eight-year-old son ride the subway alone in New York City. Skenazy argues that we should make more efforts to let our kids be independent, as our minds are conditioned to focus on negative information rather than positive experiences.