The Progress Paradox
Life can be a cycle of contradictions
Paradoxes of Life
Here are some of my favorite paradoxes:
Left Wing vs Right Wing: Politics is the ultimate paradox of power. We’re divided, only to be controlled and conquered. After all, both wings are still part of the same bird.
Money vs Time: Many people work so much that they never make money. Whether it’s through higher taxes from overwork, working for someone else’s company to build their dreams, or missing out on the priceless moments that truly bring joy — the pursuit of financial success often costs us the very time we need to enjoy life. Often, those who have money have little time, while those with time often lack money.
Freedom vs. Responsibility: We desire freedom, yet true freedom often comes with the responsibility to make difficult choices and sacrifices from doing the things we think we want to do, to replace it with things we need to do.
Strength vs. Vulnerability: Showing vulnerability can lead to deeper connections and strength in relationships, despite the fear it might make us appear weak.
It seems many of us are perpetually striving for progress, often equating it with the need to overcome painful challenges—both real and self-imposed. We tend to view rest as a form of failure rather than a necessary part of balance and harmony.
In its truest form, progress appears to be a paradox.
Progress can sometimes feel like running on a treadmill—exerting great effort but ultimately going nowhere fast.
The Technology Paradox
Personally, I believe this is the most relevant paradox of our time, and it will only grow more significant in the years ahead.
Whether it's artificial intelligence, automation, robotics, or other technological advancements — everyday tasks for survival are becoming easier and less burdensome for humans.
Easier is not necessarily better.
Studies suggest that individuals who engage less with technology and rely more on manual, hands-on activities may experience higher cognitive abilities due to enhanced problem-solving, motor skills, and creativity.
Such activities foster deeper cognitive engagement and reduce distractions compared to constant digital stimuli, which can lead to scattered attention. The brain's executive functions, like memory and focus, benefit from physical interaction with tasks and environments, helping to strengthen neural pathways. For more details, refer to the full study here.
Progress vs Purpose: The more advanced and optimized our lives become through technology, the less personal fulfillment we might feel, as human experiences like deep relationships, meaningful work, and control over our destiny are diminished.
Follow The Truth
It feels like a catch-22: the deeper we chase perfection in our pursuit of progress, the further we drift from our true purpose.
Take the work-from-home lifestyle as a simple example.
Despite being more connected than ever in human history—through virtual meetings, phone calls, emails, and social media—we seem to be growing more disconnected and isolated. While avoiding the stress of traffic and commuting is a relief, spending most of the day indoors without direct interaction with peers and colleagues can lead to increased loneliness and detachment. Then, there's the looming threat of losing your job entirely as advancing technologies replace human roles.
Again — easier is not necessarily better.
Progress for Peace
As we navigate the complexities of progress, it’s easy to get lost in the pursuit of perfection and the constant pressure to ‘do more.’ But perhaps true progress lies not in relentless striving, but in recognizing the importance of balance, purpose, and presence.
The paradox of progress teaches us that sometimes, by slowing down, we actually move closer to what truly matters. It’s the concept of slowing down to speed up.
Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV):
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
True rest, and progress toward inner peace, comes from following your Faith. It stands in contrast to the heavy burdens we often carry in our pursuit of worldly success. In the pursuit of progress and leaning into your faith, the journey becomes lighter, reminding us that true growth and peace are found not in constant striving, but in surrender and faith.
Ultimately, success in fulfilling our purpose isn’t measured by how fast we run, but by ensuring we’re running our own race.
Stay Blessed
- Tyler Bossetti