Monetize: The Modern Mantra of Our Lives

"Monetize" — a word that has subtly and steadfastly become the centerpiece of our lives. From our morning coffee to our evening commute, it seems that everything around us is either monetized, being monetized, or awaiting the magic touch of monetization.

Let’s rewind to simpler times.

Growing up, many of us remember the friendly neighborhood kirana shopkeeper who’d deliver groceries to our doorstep without a second thought. No apps, no delivery fees, just trust and community. Today, that same service comes with a click and, of course, a cost. Convenience is king, but it comes with a price tag.

Back then, a casual favor from a neighbor or colleague was just that — a favor. Need a ride? You’d get a lift without a second glance at fuel costs. Fast forward to today, and those casual rides have transformed into structured carpooling apps. Efficient, sure. But somewhere, the human warmth of these exchanges has been replaced by algorithms and transactions.

This trend isn’t limited to transportation or shopping. Entertainment, education, fitness, relationships, even our hobbies — everything now has a business model attached. Streaming platforms monetize our leisure. Fitness apps monetize our well-being. Even friendships and dating come with subscriptions and premium features.

But is this evolution good or bad? That’s where the debate lies.

On one hand, monetization brings innovation, scalability, and accessibility. Services are more structured, quality is standardized, and reach is global. Yet, on the flip side, it raises a poignant question: What happens to the free-of-cost essence of human connection and community?

When every interaction carries a price, are we losing something intangible yet invaluable? Is monetization shaping a world of convenience, or is it quietly commodifying our shared humanity?

There’s no definitive answer. Perhaps, the key lies in balance. Embracing monetized services when they genuinely add value, but also nurturing non-monetized moments that remind us of our shared roots.