The New Era of Social Media: From Feeds to Intentionality and Sustained Attention

The New Era of Social Media: From Feeds to Intentionality and Sustained Attention

In the ever-evolving world of social media, we are witnessing a shift from the traditional feed-based platforms to a new era that emphasizes intentionality, context, and sustained attention. As Facebook launches an ad campaign to defend personalized advertising against Apple's new privacy measures, we can observe a common theme emerging among digital media products.

One platform that embodies this shift is Clubhouse, which shares a focus on intentionality, context, and sustained attention with the new wave of social media platforms. Unlike the high-volume, low-attention feeds we are accustomed to, these platforms encourage users to engage in low-volume, high-attention relationships. This change in approach stems from a desire to create a more meaningful and personalized experience for users.

However, a consequence of this shift is the constant optimization for engagement. Regardless of the platform, the primary goal is to capture and maintain users' attention. This often leads to a feed full of attention-grabbing content, which can make users feel overwhelmed, manipulated, and shouted at. It is essential to strike a balance between capturing attention and respecting users' boundaries.

One notable development in this new era of social media is Twitter's introduction of Super Follows. While its success remains uncertain, Super Follows signifies a strategic shift for Twitter and reflects a broader transformation in the digital media landscape. The aim is to facilitate direct and intentional relationships between creators and their most loyal fans. By adopting a Patreon-esque revenue model, listeners can now support their favorite creators through subscriptions, tips, or ticketed events.

Another platform that is generating buzz as the next Instagram is Dispo, a social camera app. Dispo stands out by offering users a return to the simplicity and authenticity of film photography. By encouraging users to capture and share moments in a deliberate and intentional manner, Dispo taps into the growing desire for genuine connections and meaningful experiences on social media.

As we delve into the topic of personal growth, we come across an insightful article titled "Our Abilities Have Activation Conditions" by Tsutomu Aota. In this article, Aota highlights the notion that our abilities are not absolute but heavily influenced by our environment and compatibility. Even the most talented individuals may struggle to perform at their best when faced with a change in circumstances. This is because our abilities have activation conditions that need to be met.

A key takeaway from Aota's article is the understanding that there is no such thing as universal excellence. To excel in a new environment, we need to fine-tune our skills and unlearn certain behaviors or habits that may hinder our progress. This deliberate unlearning allows us to adapt and thrive in new situations.

So, how can organizations support individuals in activating their abilities? Aota suggests that there are two fundamental pillars: support for unleashing one's potential and ensuring the right fit for individuals. Organizations need to provide support and guidance to help individuals understand their activation conditions, enabling them to make informed decisions about their career paths. Additionally, placing individuals in roles that align with their strengths and interests is crucial for their personal and professional growth.

In the context of personal careers, there are several actionable pieces of advice that individuals can consider:

1. Know the Activation Conditions of Your Abilities: Take the time to reflect on what circumstances bring out the best in your abilities. Understand the environments, contexts, or situations where you thrive and seek opportunities that align with those conditions.

2. Choose the Right Fit: Don't settle for a career or role that doesn't align with your strengths and passions. Seek out opportunities that provide the right environment for you to excel and grow. Remember, it's not just about finding any job, but finding the right job for you.

3. Embrace Continuous Growth and Adaptation: In a rapidly changing world, the ability to adapt and evolve is crucial. Be open to unlearning old habits and acquiring new skills. Embrace the concept of lifelong learning and make a conscious effort to continually grow and evolve professionally.

In conclusion, the new era of social media is not solely focused on feeds but rather on intentionality, context, and sustained attention. As platforms strive to optimize for engagement, it is important to strike a balance between capturing attention and respecting users' boundaries. Twitter's Super Follows and Dispo's intentional approach to content creation exemplify this shift. On a personal level, understanding the activation conditions of our abilities and seeking the right fit in our careers are crucial for success. By embracing continuous growth and adaptation, we can navigate this new era of social media and personal growth with confidence.