Progress built on motivation collapses the moment enthusiasm fades. Systems, not slogans, carry the weight of consistency. They are the quiet structures that turn effort into rhythm and ambition into momentum. Whether for individuals or organizations, we don’t rise to the level of our goals; we fall to the level of our systems.
Some cultures build trust through content: clear words, direct instructions, and speed. Others rely on context: tone, rhythm, timing, and what’s left unsaid. Most global tech is built for the former, then superficially adapted through “localization” or RTL design tweaks. But context is where trust lives for much of the world, and it's often the first thing lost in translation. AI agents might finally offer us the chance for a reset.
Frédéric Bastiat was a 19th-century French economist who endorsed free trade and laissez-faire policies. His concept of unseen value emphasizes the importance of considering the hidden opportunity costs of economic actions, rather than focusing solely on visible benefits. This still holds true today, and is more relevant than ever as we think of AI regulation.
"Mudando o Placar" (Changing the Score) is a basketball hub with a mission to offer growth opportunities for the youth of Rocinha, Rio de Janeiro's largest favela. I was fortunate to be hosted there and see firsthand the powerful parallels with communities back home.
