Thought Chaos: Navigating Digital Cultures
Join my quest to find wholesome energy in digital cultures, and how to return to a sense of home in chaos.
Despite efforts to understand my own psychology, I still grapple with the chaos of my mind. Yet an unwavering optimism floats above me like a delicate kite. The kite still flies in the rainfall of digital transformation, it faces strong winds of cultural shifts.
Layered beginnings
Growing up in three multicultural cities has profoundly shaped me. My natural inclination is to be adaptable, like a chameleon shifting hues to navigate cultural terrains. This versatility has a shadow side though: harsh lessons of misunderstanding, misinformation, and trespassing social norms.
This pattern echoes into my digital life and career in technology. Hopping between online and physical communities has led me back to those lessons from early life.
Overcoming roadblocks
Navigating an adventurous path inevitably comes with obstacles. From crippling self-doubt to the cacophony of online opinions, every setback taught me to trust my intuition. Whenever I sensed a potential threat, be it a suspicious deal or a misaligned person, I would take a step back to assess the situation. And so I took many steps back.
I thought that was ok because I was comfortable with changing paths, but I’m always learning the art of discernment. Discernment is a crucial skill in an era of noise. What helped me was a combination of introspection, experimentation, and embracing discomfort.
And two things became a source of support: my imagination and serendipity.Â
Speculation as a practice
I write science-fiction that speculates towards positive futures. Much of it isn’t published or even finished, but the practice of speculation pushes me to search for really cool things. The world of blockchain is a favourite, where I find people and ideas shaping new cultures. Years of conferences and workshops, countless Telegram groups and Twitter spaces later, and I’m still jumping into new rabbit-holes: token engineering, DAOs, peer-to-peer computing… just to name a tiny few.
Tapping into my imagination and desires has helped me connect with others who share similar hopes.
Surrendering to chance
Embracing a thriving web of connections strengthened my optimism, but a jarring reality emerged. The rapid pace of innovation and constant digital engagement was overwhelming. Endless Discord channels, Telegram groups, and Twitter threads keeping people glued to their screens. Conferences and other events taking away free time or potential holidays with loved ones, not to mention multiple economic downturns outside of the real world.
In the chaos of information overload, I found solace in surrendering to serendipity. Just as I cherish stumbling upon books by chance, serendipity relieves the burden of processing relentless information and infuses life with excitement. And in a way we have the power to create more serendipity — for me it was about curating my sources of information. I began to view certain individuals and groups as pillars in my life, each offering unique insights and perspectives.
Creating portals
I’ve come to see each individual as a reflection of the world they absorb, both physically and digitally. In a world filled with distractions and advancements, it’s essential to cultivate a digital mindset rooted in authenticity and balance.Â
This journey towards digital wellness is fueled by a commitment to personal growth and a way out of the labyrinth of the mind. I’m excited to share insights and tools right here with you in Dayvan, and for us to rediscover the joy of living in harmony with technology and humanity.
I hope I get to get to hear about your stories in the future.
Much love ₊˚⊹♡
PS. Book a chat if you want to work together! I also offer 1-1 digital mindset coaching sessions.