Chapter 1: The Paradox of Optimization

Recently, I found myself scrolling through multiple pages on my smartphone, each filled with apps I've amassed over the years. The first page alone had several subcategories, all neatly organized by functionality. Ironically, my phone had uninstalled the least used apps to free up storage space, which left me feeling conflicted. I couldn't bring myself to delete them, convinced that they might one day help me unlock my potential or enhance my life in some way. Our time is finite, and wasting it feels like a disservice to our existence. It seems we need to excel at living rather than merely existing.

As I took a moment to reflect on my device, a sense of discomfort washed over me. Algorithms have taken the reins of my life; I no longer feel in control. Instead of confidently deciding what benefits my time, I find myself allowing the tech industry to dictate my choices.

This situation is troubling. Humans have an innate desire to optimize everything. I am about to embark on a long-awaited trip abroad, one I have dreamed of for years. After saving diligently and patiently waiting for borders to reopen, I am finally on the verge of departure. However, every journey brings its own stress, especially in these unpredictable times. I began planning my trip six months ago, creating extensive "to-do" lists to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Yet, one particular source of anxiety persists: when people ask me about the purpose of my trip, I often freeze, overwhelmed by their expectations. I struggle to provide a meaningful answer. Those I speak with seem to seek validation that my journey is not just a frivolous escape. They inquire about my plans, wanting to know if I have a specific agenda. If only I could be brave enough to admit that my only goal is to immerse myself in the experience. I grapple with guilt for lacking a clearly defined purpose. Thus, I concoct elaborate itineraries and lists of people to meet, even though my true desire is simply to savor the moments and relish my surroundings.

In today’s society, it seems every adventure must be justified. We often feel pressured to optimize our travel experiences. The question arises: why is it so crucial to have a plan and a goal? Many would argue that it allows us to maximize our time and enhance our efficiency—principles that apply to both travel and life itself. Unfortunately, we cannot control the passage of time, a reality that can be deeply unsettling. How can I ensure my life is fulfilling and that I feel accomplished by the end?

This is a vital question that deserves careful consideration. But can we truly find the answers by continuously checking our devices? Discovering the meaning of life cannot be achieved through endless notifications and excessive screen time. It is ironic how aware we are of time slipping away while simultaneously feeling powerless to step back from these digital distractions. If our devices confine us to their screens, they become less like tools and more like numbing agents. It is misleading to equate activity on our smartphones with genuine productivity or a richer life experience compared to simply walking, sitting quietly, or reflecting.

Moreover, we are encouraged to maximize our relationships as well. If we travel, we ought to meet new people. Despite having a loving family and a strong support network, the notion persists that new connections are paramount. This belief is particularly pronounced among singles, who often feel that being alone is a failure or a sign of unproductiveness. Society seems to suggest that happiness cannot be found in solitude, which is counterproductive. In a world that values speed, it becomes increasingly difficult to nurture existing relationships, all while we search for new connections, just in case they might be better.

The pressure to continually seek optimization ultimately leads to dissatisfaction. It fosters a mindset of inadequacy, making us feel as though we haven't done enough or that things could have been different had we tried harder. Our perceived failures are often blamed on technology, which provides us with the tools and algorithms we believe will lead to success. This mentality is toxic, as society fosters the belief that we must always strive for more and that happiness is contingent upon achievement. These devices impose an unrealistic expectation to decode life itself. Yet, the pursuit of happiness can be overwhelming and can mislead us.

Algorithms stifle serendipity, which is essential for creativity and innovation. By continually depending on apps and data, we suppress spontaneity and diversity, following a path defined by algorithms rather than one that is truly our own. If we adhere to this prescribed route without questioning it, we may reach the end of our journey, convinced we have led a fulfilling life, merely meeting the criteria set by tech experts.

But why should they know better than us how to live authentically? When we rely too heavily on technology, we drift further from our true selves. Authenticity is often a challenging path, yet it is one filled with richness and individuality, shaped by our unique choices. I yearn for a world where we reclaim our autonomy and pursue what genuinely interests us, rather than what is presented to us through screens. Let us utilize our tools only when necessary, rather than clutching them out of a sense of helplessness.

The first video explores the significance of serendipity in our lives, emphasizing how spontaneous moments can lead to meaningful experiences and discoveries.

The second video raises an important question: is technology eroding our ability to experience serendipity? It examines the balance between technological efficiency and the unpredictability that life offers.