Entrepreneur and writer Nir Eyal is well-known for his observations on technology and human nature. His writings on the psychology of habit formation around digital goods and services are extensive. One of his main arguments is that although people may know how to use technology, they frequently find it difficult to interact with it mindfully.
Think of technology as a raging river that runs through our everyday existence. Many of us can swim in this river with ease, but we frequently get swept up in its currents without giving our destination much thought. According to Nir Eyal, the difficulty is in being mindful and purposeful with each stroke rather than in knowing how to cross the river.
Eyal's viewpoint stems from his personal encounters and insights into human nature. He thinks that instead of using technology intentionally and consciously, a lot of people—including himself—have a propensity to let it control their behavior. Digital tools may be misused or overused as a result, which may not be in line with our long-term objectives.
Eyal wants to assist people in escaping potentially harmful habits by highlighting the significance of conscious thought in our technology use. People can learn to use technology more intelligently and efficiently, just as a good swimmer can deliberately navigate the currents of a river.
Nir Eyal urges everyone to take charge of their relationship with digital tools through his lectures and writings. He encourages us to form sustainable and helpful habits instead of letting the incessant notifications and updates consume us. His recommendation is to use technology in a way that improves rather than diminishes our lives, not to avoid it.