The Power of Daily Progress and the Urgency of Deleting Social Media

The Power of Daily Progress and the Urgency of Deleting Social Media

In the fast-paced world of engineering, progress and growth are paramount. John Goddard, an experienced engineer, suggests that less experienced engineers should aim to get a pull request (PR) done every single day, or even more frequently, as it leads to better work and facilitates faster growth. However, for this to happen, a hands-on engineering manager must create an environment that allows engineers to focus on their tasks without interruptions from meetings or other distractions. By ensuring that there is dedicated time for coding and keeping a pulse on the progress through signals like PRs, code reviews, and design documents, managers can support the professional development of their team members.

While engineers strive for daily progress, Jaron Lanier, a pioneer in virtual reality and currently working at Microsoft, offers a thought-provoking perspective on the detrimental effects of social media. In his book and accompanying talk, "Ten Arguments For Deleting Your Social Media Accounts Right Now," Lanier provides ten compelling reasons to abandon these platforms. Among these arguments are the loss of free will, resistance against societal insanity, the erosion of truth, the promotion of meaningless communication, the destruction of empathy, unhappiness, the erosion of economic dignity, the ruination of politics, and the assault on the soul.

Lanier highlights how social media algorithms often amplify the worst aspects of human behavior, as outrage and negativity tend to generate more engagement and profit than positivity. However, Lanier also expresses optimism, suggesting that mass account deletion could force social media companies to build something better, thereby improving the overall impact of these platforms.

It is crucial to recognize that not all forms of online content consumption are created equal. Lanier specifically notes that podcasts remain largely unaffected by social media manipulation. Podcasts offer an alternative means of consuming information and entertainment that is independent of the algorithms and negativity prevalent on social media platforms. By embracing this medium, individuals can diversify their sources of content and engage with topics of interest without being subjected to the harmful effects of social media.

In light of the insights from both John Goddard and Jaron Lanier, here are three actionable pieces of advice:

1. Prioritize daily progress: Whether you are an experienced engineer or just starting your career, aim to accomplish meaningful tasks every day. Set aside dedicated time for coding and ensure that meetings and distractions do not hinder your progress. By consistently making tangible contributions, you can enhance your skills and grow faster.

2. Evaluate your social media consumption: Reflect on the impact that social media has on your life. Consider the ten arguments presented by Jaron Lanier and assess if they resonate with your experiences. If you find that social media is negatively affecting your well-being, relationships, or worldview, consider deleting your accounts or at least reducing your usage. Explore alternative platforms like podcasts that offer a more positive and informative experience.

3. Advocate for responsible social media usage: Engage in discussions with your peers, colleagues, and friends about the potential harms of social media. Encourage critical thinking, empathy, and responsible engagement online. By raising awareness and promoting healthier digital habits, we can collectively work towards improving the social media landscape.

In conclusion, the combination of insights from John Goddard and Jaron Lanier sheds light on the importance of daily progress in engineering and the urgency of considering the impact of social media on our lives. By prioritizing focused work and minimizing distractions, engineers can enhance their skills and accelerate their growth. Simultaneously, by evaluating and potentially reducing social media usage, individuals can protect their well-being and contribute to the creation of a healthier online environment.