I recently stumbled upon a thought-provoking piece by Dan Koe that made me stop and reflect on how the landscape of education and work is shifting. It’s not just about trends or surface-level changes—it feels like a fundamental shift in the way we approach life itself. And it struck a chord with me, perhaps because I’ve been navigating these waters myself, balancing a traditional career while exploring the vast, often overwhelming world of crypto, AI, and digital entrepreneurship.

There’s a part of me that has always been skeptical of the conventional path—the path that says you should stick to a 9-5, climb the corporate ladder, and play it safe. I tried that path; in fact, I’m still on it in some ways. But every day, I feel the pull toward something different, something that feels more aligned with who I am and what I value. Koe’s message was a reminder that there is another way—one that doesn’t require us to fit into predefined boxes or live up to expectations set by others.

The Shift to a Decentralized, Personalized Education

Imagine a world where education isn’t about ticking boxes or chasing degrees but about diving into what truly excites and inspires you. A world where learning is decentralized—where we can choose our own mentors, follow our passions, and build skills that are not just relevant but also deeply fulfilling. This isn’t some distant dream; it’s already happening, and people are waking up to it.

I think back to my own experiences. Traditional education taught me a lot, but it also boxed me in. It’s only when I started exploring crypto, tech, and AI on my own that I felt a sense of excitement again—like I was finally learning something that mattered to me, not just to an employer or an industry standard. The freedom to choose what I want to learn and how I want to apply it has been a game-changer. And the best part? I’m not alone. Millions are stepping away from the outdated norms and carving their own paths.

The Creative Economy and the Rise of the Polymath

Koe paints a picture of a world where creatives and polymaths—the modern-day Renaissance people—are the new leaders. This idea speaks to me because, over the years, I’ve found myself drawn to multiple disciplines, often feeling like I’m trying to piece together a puzzle that doesn’t quite fit. But maybe that’s the point. Maybe the future isn’t about fitting into one role but about embracing the diversity of our interests and skills.

This is especially true in today’s economy. Freelancers and content creators are no longer outliers; they are becoming the norm. We’re moving towards a model where value is created through creativity and authenticity, not just productivity. As someone who juggles multiple passions—AI, crypto, writing—I see how this aligns with my journey. It’s about becoming adaptable, learning continuously, and finding ways to turn knowledge into something meaningful. The opportunities are there, and while the path isn’t always clear, it’s exciting to be part of this shift.

Embracing the Uncertainty

I won’t pretend that this transition is easy. Moving away from a stable, predictable path to one that’s filled with uncertainty can be daunting. I still have days when I wonder if it’s all worth it—if all the hours spent learning new skills and exploring new fields will really pay off. But then I remember: It’s not just about the end result; it’s about the process. It’s about choosing to live a life that feels true to who I am, even if it means stepping into the unknown.

For me, this isn’t just a theoretical discussion. It’s personal. I’m living this shift, trying to find the balance between a stable career and the pull to build something entirely my own. It’s a daily challenge, but it’s also a reminder that we have a choice. We don’t have to settle for a life that doesn’t align with our values. We can decide to take control, to build skills that matter, and to create value on our own terms.

The Future is Human

What excites me most about Koe’s vision is the idea of a human economy—a world where individuals can design their own educational paths, build their own brands, and live authentically. Technology is no longer just a tool for companies; it’s a tool for individuals. And while there’s always a fear of automation and AI replacing jobs, I believe that those who adapt, who learn continuously, and who bring genuine value will always find a place.

The shift towards decentralization means we’re no longer reliant on institutions to dictate what’s possible. It’s liberating, but it’s also a call to action. It’s up to us to build the skills, create the opportunities, and connect with others who share our vision. The tools are there—AI, no-code platforms, social media—and they’re more accessible than ever. The question is, are we ready to use them?

Final Thoughts

The future isn’t about sticking to what’s comfortable. It’s about taking risks, learning continuously, and building something meaningful. As I reflect on my own journey, I see how much this resonates. I’ve always felt a pull towards something more, something that aligns with my values and interests. Maybe it’s time to fully embrace that and see where it leads.

For those of us who feel this same pull—who are tired of the old system and excited about the possibilities ahead—it’s time to act. Let’s build, let’s create, and let’s redefine what it means to live, work, and learn in a world that’s constantly evolving.

What I saw today:

What I listened to today:

What I liked today:

What I learned today:

Core Concept of the "Toothbrush Product":

• Google uses the term "Toothbrush Product" to describe products that users engage with 1-2 times daily.

• The goal was to develop only those products with high usage frequency to ensure they become an integral part of users' daily lives.

• Examples include Gmail, Google Calendar, Google Docs, and even unsuccessful attempts in the social media space.

Application to SaaS Products:

• A similar principle for SaaS products is activity frequency:

  • Is the product used daily or at least several times a week?

  • If yes, there is a high likelihood that users will continue paying for the monthly or yearly subscription, providing a stable revenue stream.

Risk of Low Usage:

• Products that aren’t used regularly risk users canceling their subscriptions because the perceived value is not high enough.

• Products that are only used in specific situations or periods could be problematic:

  • Example: A product that helps reconcile monthly bills may only see heavy use for one week each month. This can still be acceptable if it provides high value during that time.

Problematic Product Types:

• Products that are needed only temporarily are the most challenging:

  • Example: Applications for weddings or other one-time events.

  • Tools that become obsolete after use, such as code optimizers, which are only needed when an urgent issue arises and then may not be used for months.

Random Thoughts:

In a world of endless information, achieving true mental autonomy and cognitive freedom feels both empowering and elusive. It’s the ability to shape our own beliefs, to decide what we accept as truth, and to free ourselves from biases imposed by society, media, or our surroundings. But this freedom demands discipline and reflection; it requires us to pause, question, and even unlearn the comfortable assumptions we've held onto. In the pursuit of cognitive freedom, we’re not just thinking independently—we’re actively choosing to engage with our minds in a way that’s intentional, aware, and deeply personal.

That’s it for today! ☺️