The Power of Curation and the Importance of Clear Communication

The Power of Curation and the Importance of Clear Communication

In a world of abundant information, content curation has emerged as a new form of authorship. Just like curators in the art world, online curators select and organize content around a specific theme deemed culturally significant. However, as we navigate this era of information overload, we must also find new ways to preserve the depth, context, and cultural significance of these information nodes.

One example of the power of curation is evident in the case of Maria Popova's Twitter feed. Initially, Popova started the feed as a means to provide additional treats to her existing readers. However, it quickly took on a life of its own, becoming the number-one discovery driver for new readers. This showcases how curation can transcend its original purpose and become a valuable tool for discovery and engagement.

New tools, especially Twitter, challenge the traditional view of attention as something that can only be given or taken away. Instead, these tools allow us to direct attention to destinations that sustain concentration and immersion. In a world where information is abundant, these tools enable us to filter and discover the most relevant, interesting, and impactful information across different mediums. Moreover, they help us connect this information in a networked ecosystem of meaning, enhancing our understanding of the world and each other.

However, it's crucial to remember that Twitter is a constantly evolving platform with changing social utility. Users themselves have introduced features like the photo-sharing service to meet the demands of communication on this platform. This ever-changing nature of Twitter gives people the power to express themselves and gather like-minded individuals, making it a platform for creative labor.

Yet, our current models for crediting creative labor in the realm of curation and information discovery are inadequate. Finding a way to acknowledge and codify this labor is the next frontier in our understanding of intellectual property in the information age.

In addition to the power of curation, effective communication is also essential in fostering kind and productive relationships. Leaders often rank avoiding tough conversations as their greatest concern, including the challenge of giving honest and constructive feedback. However, it's important to remember that clear communication is kind, while being unclear is unkind.

Feeding people half-truths or sugar-coated responses may temporarily make them feel better, but it ultimately lacks kindness. Similarly, failing to communicate expectations clearly, yet blaming others for not meeting them, is unkind. To foster kind and productive conversations, we need braver leaders and more courageous cultures.

One approach to achieving this is through what Brené Brown calls a "rumble." A rumble is a discussion or meeting defined by a commitment to vulnerability, curiosity, generosity, and problem-solving. It involves staying engaged in the messy middle of problem identification and solution-finding, taking breaks when necessary, and bravely owning our part in the conversation. It also requires us to listen with the same passion with which we want to be heard.

By embracing vulnerability and avoiding the need to protect our egos, we create an environment conducive to productive, kind, and respectful conversations. It may feel awkward at times, but it is through this discomfort that we can foster growth and understanding.

In conclusion, curation has become a new form of authorship in the age of information abundance. Platforms like Twitter allow us to curate and discover information in a networked ecosystem of meaning. However, we must also find ways to credit and acknowledge the labor behind curation and information discovery. Additionally, clear communication is crucial for fostering kind and productive relationships. Leaders and individuals must embrace vulnerability and engage in open, honest conversations to create cultures that value clarity and kindness.

Actionable advice:

• 1. Embrace the role of a curator: Take time to curate and share relevant and impactful content around a specific theme or topic of interest. Be intentional in providing value to your audience.

• 2. Stay adaptable in the digital landscape: Keep up with evolving platforms and tools like Twitter, which can offer new opportunities for expression and connection. Embrace the power of these platforms to amplify your voice and engage with like-minded individuals.

• 3. Foster clear communication: Practice vulnerability and open dialogue in your personal and professional relationships. Be courageous in addressing tough conversations and providing honest, constructive feedback. Remember, clear communication is kind communication.

By incorporating these actionable advice into our lives, we can fully embrace the power of curation and clear communication, leading to a more connected and understanding world.