Intro.
As far as I remember I have never considered myself as a norm and I am proud of it. How about you?
Similarly, most of the people who know me usually share that opinion. I was always super curious, experimenting a lot, asking a thought-provoking question, and consequently fell in love with emerging technologies.
I am totally sure that I am not the first and not the last who get hooked to the lifestyle of the dual real-world and digital existence. Furthermore. I treat both very seriously. With what is prepared for us, more and more people will follow the digital path as a “normal” everyday way of leaving.
Today technology is moving so fast it is really challenging to keep up with it.
Some people like me continuously learning and experimenting, and some keep their distance or even dislike it. That is the beauty of the real-life and free choices we can make. How long, “that is a good question!”
Whether you like it or not, that is the world we are living in today – split between tech “natives” and “norms”.
Those who enjoy and adopt Crypto, Web3, NFTs, Real-world asset (RWA) tokenisation, the Metaverses, and the folks who stick to the tech they already know or just simply do not get the new stuff at all.
So, maybe we can focus a bit more on this.
“The contrast between “Natives” and “Norms” highlights an interesting social dynamic in the context of technology adoption and understanding.”
Who are the Tech Natives?
You may say that “Tech Natives” are the insiders, the ones who are all in and within the latest technology. They are not only using it, but they are actively shaping our future with it.
They often prioritise decentralisation, security, and innovation, enthusiastically exploring many new platforms.
For them, blockchain is not a “buzzword” (for some reason I despise that grossly overused term), instead it is a daily topic and tool.
NFTs are not a mystery or rubbish. They are exciting and valuable collectibles, or multiple-use utility tokens. The Metaverse is not science-fiction stuff, but the next big scene and virtual place to exist and to perform – All sorts of activities.
People like those, see emerging technologies as a progress tool and game-changer. It is a new way to express yourself and to do almost everything from business to art, even a place for a regular meetup and a way to digitally chill out.
“My beliefs and the way I am interacting with the world is like that, and therefore I consider myself Native.”
And the Norms – Who the Norms are?
Norms are either on the sidelines or have not even tried to learn and use any of the emerging technologies. It is not that they are totally anti-tech, or technically challenged. They might just prefer to stick to what they are already familiar with, or they are sceptical about how these new technologies will perform for them.
“Generally, norms are more reserved. They are prioritising simplicity, familiarity, and mainstream appeal.”
They may be hesitant to use Web3 or AI due to all sorts of concerns. Uncertainness about privacy, technological complexity, lack of well-established and commonly perceived value, or just absence of mass-produced standards – yet. There is always a valid reason for them not to join or experiment.
Some might feel it is heavily overcomplicated, or they are wary about potential fraud. Whatever the reason Norms stick to what they already know and are good at.
Sailing through uncharted water is always a bit dangerous and associated with a risk. I think we all can agree with that.
“Consequently, it means that there is a gap between them and the latest tech trends. And the gap is quickly expanding and growing.”
So, what is the Big Fuss about?
Why does this gap matter? The truth is that it is about more than just who is using the latest “gizmos” or platforms. It is about how we are planning and shaping our future.
If the significant majority of the community is not on board or does not get it, that can slow down innovation or lead to misunderstandings about what these technologies can do for us. Both, good and wrong, as the pros and cons of emerging technologies are always included.
Filling the Divide.
“How do we get everyone at least understanding each other, if we are not all in the same boat and on the same page?”
It all starts with proper information, followed by high standards and efficient education. We need to decipher and demystify these technologies and translate them into Lyman Terms – an easy-to-understand language.
Show how emerging technology is relevant to everyone, whether you are young or older, norm or native. We need to clear up the myths and correct common misunderstandings.
We need to not only make understanding technologies simpler but also explain and introduce new terms and commonly used technical jargon. The goal is to picture the genuine value of emerging technologies in the real world as we are currently living.
Education is key, but it needs to be a proper standard.
From academia to common online courses and workshops it is important where and what we choose to learn. Also, the best way is to learn what you really need, not to try to learn everything which is difficult and commonly made mistakes.
To do so, guidance of genuine mentor, well recognised tutor, or trustworthy sources are recommended.
Always do your own research (DYOR) – as the method to support real success to happen.
Also, look for similar resources that the technical community reaching out. Some of materials that showing how these tools can be used in everyday life by everyone, not just for the selected tech-savvy individuals.
“Be aware of shilling techniques and paid influences manipulation. Try to build your own educational database to form your own judgements and independent opinions.”
Control and minimise the influence of mass media which floods your mind with what is good for you and what you should know.
Instead, use your brain, look from perspective, and choose yourself what you need and what is better for you. Trust me – it makes a huge difference in the long run.
It is not considered an easy task today in over-commercialised mass-stream media reality. But it is still possible to achieve it and a good exercise for an old-fashioned active brain usage called “independent thinking”!
Choose wisely from where and what you going to learn and simply do it! Do not wait for the next day to start! Do it today. Once again, you will not regret it, and you may thank me later.
Looking Ahead.
Overall, the future looks not so bad as you may see it. But if we want everyone with us on board, we need to make sure not many people are left behind, with seniors included.
Do not think I am “Hippy”, or “Populist” but:
“It will be great to make emerging technology something that brings us all together, not a tool that divides us.”
Wrapping Up my thoughts.
Turning the entire community into tech natives is not just about getting everyone to buy the latest gadgets, tokenise real-world assets (RWA), or invest in crypto.
It is about at least a conceptual understanding of a new technology.
Making sure that whether you are a tech native or decide to stay as a norm, you will get the best from what is happening in the tech space now and around you.
Also to understand and be fully aware of why it matters.
Whether you decide to dive deeper into it, or just dip your toes only, it is crucial to know and be aware of what it is all about – out there and what is already happening around us on the full throttle.
Unawareness often leads to knowledge challenges and technological blindness – Stagnancy or dormancy usually destructing progress.
“Not doing anything is almost the same as not knowing.”
So, why not help the others, let’s do it.
As you are already Native like me, how about helping others to join us?
A big part of the future’s technology is available today and for almost everyone.
Help your Norm friends to become a bit more Native and make the best of it, together. You and Me.
The divide between Natives and Norms presents challenges but also opportunities for growth and innovation.
If we understand the factors driving the tech divide and take steps to encourage collaboration and understanding, we can create a more inclusive, open-minded, and forward-thinking society!
Also, without being an active part of it we do not have a right and the chance to control it, influence it, and shape it to our liking! We can only comment and complain post-factum.
Being constantly active and in-the-loop-with-emerging-technology is one of my primary goals. And the same I wish to You.
Happy tech exploring, The Author.
Oryginally published on 20 April, 2024 at