Writer Ian Bogost recently argued that paying attention to “the small stuff” can help people reclaim their lives from an overreliance on convenience. In a piece featured on TechCrunch, Bogost frames the idea as a counterweight to the pervasive push for frictionless, automated experiences that dominate much of today’s tech landscape. The article’s summary poses a pointed question: has Silicon Valley been building the wrong things by prioritizing ease over substance?

For creators, the convenience Bogost critiques often shows up in the form of algorithm‑driven recommendation engines, one‑click publishing tools, and platform‑managed monetization streams. While these services lower the barrier to entry, they can also tether creative output to external systems that dictate visibility, revenue, and even creative choices. Bogost’s emphasis on modest, tangible actions invites creators to examine where they might insert low‑tech, intentional practices—such as handwritten planning, offline brainstorming sessions, or deliberate limits on automation—into their workflows.

By reintegrating these smaller, creator‑driven habits, individuals may regain a sense of agency that convenience‑first tools can erode. The approach does not require abandoning useful technologies; instead, it encourages a mindful balance where creators decide which conveniences truly serve their goals and which merely add noise. This reflective stance aligns with the broader concern raised in the article about whether the tech industry’s current trajectory serves long‑term creative wellbeing.

Ultimately, Bogost’s perspective offers a framework for creators to evaluate their toolkits and routines. Rather than accepting convenience as an inevitable upgrade, creators can test whether scaling back certain automated features leads to more focused, sustainable, and authentic work. The piece does not prescribe specific steps but opens a conversation about reclaimed control in an era of ever‑increasing convenience.