How Gaming and Pinterest Can Make a Better World: 4 Things That Games and Startups Are Making Us Virtuosos At

How Gaming and Pinterest Can Make a Better World: 4 Things That Games and Startups Are Making Us Virtuosos At

Introduction:

In a world where technology and virtual experiences are becoming increasingly prevalent, it is important to explore the potential positive impacts of these advancements. Two examples that showcase the power of technology to improve our lives are gaming and startups like Pinterest. Both have the ability to cultivate certain skills and qualities in individuals that can contribute to making a better world. This article will delve into the four things that games and startups are making us virtuosos at: Urgent Optimism, Social Fabric, Blissful Productivity, and Epic Meaning.

Urgent Optimism:

One of the remarkable aspects of gaming is its ability to instill a sense of urgent optimism in players. Unlike real life, where immediate feedback and rewards are scarce, games provide constant positive reinforcement and a clear sense of progress. Through leveling up and gaining strength or intelligence points, players are motivated to keep pushing forward and tackling challenges. This sense of urgent optimism can be a powerful tool in addressing real-world problems such as hunger, poverty, climate change, and global conflict.

Social Fabric:

Gaming also excels in building a tight social fabric among its players. With the advent of online multiplayer games, individuals from different parts of the world can come together and collaborate towards a common goal. This collaboration not only enhances the gaming experience but also fosters bonds, trust, and cooperation among players. By spending countless hours playing games, we are actually evolving into a more collaborative and hearty species, capable of working together towards shared objectives.

Blissful Productivity:

Contrary to popular belief, gaming can actually make individuals happier when they are engaged in hard and meaningful work. This concept, known as blissful productivity, suggests that humans are optimized to find fulfillment and happiness in challenging tasks. When playing a game, individuals often experience a state of flow, where they are completely immersed and focused on the task at hand. This state of flow brings about a sense of satisfaction and joy that surpasses the relaxation or leisure activities we typically associate with happiness.

Epic Meaning:

The final virtue that games and startups impart on individuals is epic meaning. Games often provide players with an inspiring narrative and purpose that drives their actions. This epic story creates a sense of meaning and fulfillment, making individuals feel like they are part of something greater than themselves. By engaging in games and startups, individuals are motivated to collaborate, cooperate, and make a real impact on the world around them.

Pinterest's Journey to Success:

While gaming has its unique contributions to making a better world, startups like Pinterest also have their own stories of perseverance and purpose. Pinterest's founders faced numerous challenges and rejections when they initially launched the platform. However, they maintained their original vision and refused to pivot, believing in the potential of their idea. This determination and commitment to their product eventually paid off, as Pinterest grew steadily and gained traction over time.

One of the remarkable aspects of Pinterest's journey is the personal touch they maintained with their early users. Despite the pressures to scale quickly and achieve success, the founders personally reached out to the first 5,000-7,000 users, demonstrating their dedication to the community they were building. This level of attention and care for their users played a significant role in the platform's growth and success.

Actionable Advice:

• 1. Embrace Urgent Optimism: In your own life, try to cultivate a sense of urgent optimism by setting clear goals, tracking your progress, and rewarding yourself for achievements. This mindset can propel you forward and help you overcome challenges in various aspects of life.

• 2. Foster Social Fabric: Look for opportunities to collaborate and build strong social relationships with others. Engage in activities or communities that encourage teamwork and cooperation. By working together towards a common goal, you can not only enhance your own experiences but also contribute to a more collaborative world.

• 3. Seek Blissful Productivity: Find activities or projects that challenge you and bring you a sense of fulfillment. Embrace the state of flow, where you are fully immersed and engaged in what you are doing. By prioritizing meaningful work over mere relaxation, you can discover a deeper sense of happiness and satisfaction.

Conclusion:

Gaming and startups like Pinterest have the power to shape our world for the better. Through cultivating urgent optimism, building a strong social fabric, embracing blissful productivity, and finding epic meaning, individuals can become virtuosos in the game of life. By incorporating the lessons learned from these realms into our own lives, we can contribute to a more collaborative, purpose-driven, and fulfilling world. So let us embrace the power of gaming and startups, and strive to make a better world for ourselves and future generations.