Muhammad Usman Qazi

Early Career and the Shock of Technological Change

When I graduated from university, the professional world looked very different from what it is today. Computers were not common, and digital skills were not considered essential for most jobs. People who were interested in computing usually learned languages such as COBOL, FoxPro, or Lotus 1-2-3, and the machines available were early versions like the 286 computers. At that stage, I did not possess much computer knowledge and continued working through traditional methods, unaware of how quickly the world was about to transform.

The real turning point came with the arrival of Windows 95. It completely changed the way people interacted with computers and brought technology into mainstream professional life. For many, it was exciting; for me, it was alarming. I suddenly realized that while the world was moving forward, my skills were standing still. That realization was uncomfortable, but it forced me to reflect honestly on my position. I understood that ignoring this change or depending on others would eventually limit my growth. As a result, I made a conscious decision to acquire computer knowledge. This decision was not driven by passion but by necessity and foresight.

Choosing Self-Reliance Over Dependency

By the year 2000, I had equipped myself with practical computer skills relevant to my job. This single step transformed my professional life. Computers became a tool that supported me in every type of work I performed, allowing me to operate independently and confidently. I no longer had to rely on others to complete basic tasks, and my productivity improved significantly.

At that time, I was younger than many of my colleagues, most of whom had more years of experience but lacked computer knowledge. Many of them were unwilling to learn new skills and depended on others to type documents or complete digital tasks. Often, they remained idle while waiting for assistance. In contrast, I was able to complete my work independently without interruption. This difference clearly demonstrated how dependency can slow down progress and reduce professional effectiveness.

Eventually, management noticed this growing gap. A firm decision was made that employees without basic computer skills would need to upgrade themselves or risk losing their positions. This was not an emotional decision—it was a practical one. Organizations evolve, and individuals who fail to adapt often face serious consequences. That period reinforced my belief that self-reliance is not optional; it is essential.

Lifelong Learning as a Survival Strategy

From that moment onward, I made it a personal rule to continuously acquire knowledge that is relevant to my job and the demands of the present time. I never tried to learn everything, because that is neither realistic nor necessary. However, I strongly believe that learning what is required for your role and environment is crucial if you want to move forward. Without this effort, experience alone is not enough to protect you from becoming irrelevant.

Over the years, I have learned that dependency gradually erodes confidence, limits growth, and creates vulnerability during times of change. Professional independence, on the other hand, builds confidence, respect, adaptability, and peace of mind. This is why I firmly believe that dependency is professional death. Learning does not always need passion; sometimes it is about survival, dignity, and self-respect. I was not passionate about computers when I started, but I understood that without adapting, I would fall behind.

Even now, as I approach retirement, my mindset remains the same. Learning keeps the mind active, and independence preserves professional dignity. Retirement does not mean intellectual retirement, and growth does not have an age limit. My message to young and mid-career professionals is simple: do not wait until change forces you to act. Learn what your job requires today, prepare for what it may demand tomorrow, and develop skills that allow you to stand on your own.

Conclusion

My professional journey has taught me one clear and lasting lesson: those who adapt continue to grow, and those who depend eventually fall behind. Technology will continue to evolve, workplaces will continue to change, and skills will continue to become outdated. However, the habit of continuous learning and self-reliance will always remain a source of strength. This belief has guided me throughout my career, and it continues to guide me as I approach the final phase of my professional life.

There is no doubt that entertainment is necessary. Human beings need relaxation and moments of enjoyment to refresh their minds. However, balance in life is far more important than constant entertainment. When entertainment turns into addiction and leisure replaces responsibility, the results become harmful. Excess of everything is dangerous, and misuse of anything—even something useful—can slowly destroy a person’s life.

Most things in life are neutral by nature. It is their misuse that makes them harmful. The human body is a perfect example. Every person has a brain, hands, legs, eyes, and arms to support them in daily life. These parts are powerful tools, but if misused, they can cause harm. A brain can think creatively or plan evil. Hands can help others or commit theft. Legs can take someone toward goodness or lead them down the wrong path. Eyes can observe knowledge and beauty or consume inappropriate content.

This leads to an important question: if parts of the body are misused, should they be separated from the body? The clear answer is no. These organs are vital and extremely helpful. The problem is not their existence, but how they are used. The solution lies in discipline, guidance, and good manners. When used responsibly, these same body parts become sources of goodness, productivity, and progress.

The same principle applies to social media. Social media platforms are not bad by themselves; they are tools. When used correctly, they can educate, connect people globally, spread awareness, and inspire positive change. When misused, they waste time, harm mental health, and distract people from meaningful goals.

Social media can be a classroom without walls, offering learning opportunities to millions. It can connect cultures, share ideas, and amplify important voices. At the same time, uncontrolled use can turn it into a thief of time, a source of unhealthy comparison, and an escape from real-life responsibilities.

One of the greatest dangers of excessive social media use is the silent loss of time. Hours disappear while scrolling through videos and posts without purpose. This time could have been invested in learning, skill development, reading, or spending quality time with family. Once lost, time can never be recovered.

Another serious concern is the effect of social media on mental and emotional well-being. Constant exposure to edited lifestyles and unrealistic standards creates anxiety, stress, and low self-esteem. Many people begin measuring their worth through likes, shares, and followers, forgetting that true value comes from character, effort, and contribution to society.

Entertainment itself is not wrong. The human mind needs rest and enjoyment. The problem arises when entertainment dominates life and replaces growth. A balanced approach involves using social media for education, inspiration, and communication while limiting mindless consumption. Purpose should guide usage, not habit.

Students can use social media to learn new skills and explore educational content. Teachers can share knowledge and innovative teaching ideas. Entrepreneurs can build brands and businesses. Writers and thinkers can spread ideas and encourage meaningful discussions. When used with intention, social media becomes a powerful asset rather than a burden.

Responsibility ultimately lies with the individual. It is easy to blame platforms or algorithms, but no platform forces misuse. Just as children are taught manners in speech and behavior, digital manners must also be learned. Knowing when to use social media, how much to use it, and what content to engage with is essential in the modern world.

The Power of Choice

Everything comes down to choice. Social media will continue to exist, and technology will continue to advance. The real question is whether we choose to use these tools wisely or allow them to control our lives. We can either use social media productively or remain trapped in endless distraction.

Conclusion: Use Social Media—Don’t Let It Use You

Social media is not the enemy of humanity; misuse is. Like the human body, digital tools require discipline and ethical use. Instead of asking whether social media should be removed from our lives, we should ask how it can be used better for education, growth, and positive impact. Life is about balance. Use social media wisely—but do not let it use you. In the end, technology does not shape our future; our choices do.