Nostalgia is Not a Business Model

June 17, 2009

Yesterday I had that moment, the one where we realize that we are old and can relay first-hand information of how life was in the past. This realization occurred to me while I was discussing what dial-up modems were to my 11 year old niece. As I imitated the sounds of the dial tone she began to giggle in complete mockery of me — I resorted to describing it as a donkey arguing with a car alarm. My story didn’t matter to her; in fact, it probably wouldn’t even help her in the future either.

“How we got here?” is an important question, but it will never be more important than, “What’s next?”. Next time I see her, I’m going to ask how her and her friends interact online to find out what is important to them – that is a more valuable conversation.

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Tagged as: Business Models, General, nostalgia, Thoughts

  • You're right Rikin - we are old in the sense that we have vivid memories of what life was like before technology. Or at least,technology in a completely different form than what it is today. Back in the day of Apple 2E's, Oregon Trail, and beepers. When you think back to those days, you can't help but feel ancient. I started working on an article with a similar theme a while back, but this has stirred up those thoughts within me once again.

    As you said - the most important thing isn't looking back, it's looking ahead, and for business innovators, how to remain one step ahead of the pack.
  • Haha, I had a teenager on the floor laughing a year or so ago watching "You've Got Mail" and the whole world of AOL. She was amazed by the whole concept. That movie is only, what, 10 years old?
  • I'm not going to lie - that actually was a great movie that showed the culture of the times pretty well.

    On another note I don't remember the last time I was on the floor laughing literally. That's not good.
  • Perfect way to describe the dial-up model tone! I doubt anyone's said it better. :-) I find myself getting 'nostalgic' everytime my 10 yr old nephew asks me his simple, curious questions. It feels good to know I've been around long enough to be able to explain to someone how things got the way they are. Enjoyed reading you blog :-)
  • Thanks Sabera for comin by! Whenever my neices and nephews ask me innocent pure questions i feel tainted and cynical - but that's probably because I am. I hope you come back again soon!

    Best,
    Rikin
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