The Power of Limits in an Era of Endless Freedom

As a tech person, I marvel at how far technology and AI have come. The pace of innovation is outstanding, offering opportunities and tools we could only dream of a few decades ago. But as a father of two teenagers, this same evolution fills me with concern. The same technologies that empower us also create new challenges - particularly for young people navigating a world of instant gratification and endless distractions.

Teenagers today have more options at their fingertips than ever before. Mobile phones bring everything - information, entertainment, and connections - within reach. Still, they rarely teach the value of patience or the ability to face boundaries. The ease of accessing anything they desire has fostered a lack of focus and a craving for instant results. It’s a behavior I don't see only in my kids since it is reflected widely across society and the tech market.

# Can you focus and read 1 single paragraph?

What’s most disappointing is how these habits have taken hold. People often lack the patience to read even a single paragraph, let alone engage deeply with an idea. I see the erosion of focus and critical thinking in meetings, emails, and everyday interactions.

People keep procrastinating when it comes to such analytical duties, since they demand focus and sheer will. They are afraid of missing out on something, so they keep jumping from one thing to another. That said, processing and analyzing tasks with increased cognitive load are becoming increasingly difficult and painful for many.

If this trend continues, focus, reading, and processing will become rare skills - precious enough to stand out on CVs in the next 10 years. And while it’s encouraging to imagine such skills being valued, it’s also a stark reminder of how far we’ve drifted from cultivating them naturally.

# Setting boundaries is more important than ever

This is why setting limits is more important than ever. Boundaries aren’t about holding our kids back but preparing them to thrive in a world of noise and distractions. They need to learn that true freedom isn’t found in endless access but in the discipline to wisely manage their time and energy.

Actually this is not just for kids. We all need to become intentional with our time and energy, ensuring we’re not just reacting to the world but actively shaping it. Cheers!!