EAPCET-2026 Mock Test @ GITAM Register Now

EdBlogs

The Cost of Wasted Time: A Reflection on Networking, Focus, and Productivity

The Cost of Wasted Time: A Reflection on Networking, Focus, and Productivity

Dear Friends,

Recently, I came across a post on X by Naval Ravikant that said, “Networking is overrated. Go do something great, and your network will instantly emerge.” He also mentioned, “Don’t spend your time doing meetings unless you really, really have to.”

He further elaborated, “Go do something great, and your network will instantly emerge. If you build a great product or get a good customer base, I guarantee you will get funded.”

I completely agree with this perspective and have closely observed some successful leaders who follow this principle purposefully. Naval’s advice is particularly relevant for startup founders. Often, we believe that consciously investing time in building a network is essential. However, such networks are rarely sustainable.

When you focus on doing excellent work, pursuing your passion, and helping others within your abilities and limitations, the network that naturally forms is the one that lasts. Beyond this, networks can become artificial and difficult to manage, draining your energy, resources, and emotions.

If you don’t maintain the network, some people might laugh at you, disconnect from you, or fail to reciprocate when you expect it. Instead, focus on your karma and let the rest follow naturally.

This principle applies equally to college students. I often observe students spending hours in coffee shops or casual hangouts. When you overhear these conversations, they are usually unproductive. While relaxation is essential, it should be meaningful.

It is disheartening to see students spending an average of 3-4 hours daily on platforms like Instagram, X, Snapchat, and YouTube. Many spend 1-2 hours gaming, and some get so involved in multiplayer games that they spend 4-5 hours daily.

Instead of engaging in focused, deep study, students often spend 1-2 hours in pseudo-study, distracted by their phones or multitasking. Casual hangouts can extend to 2-3 hours or more, while procrastination—whether through scrolling, daydreaming, or delaying tasks—can easily add up to 2-3 hours daily. In total, students may waste 5-8 hours daily on non-productive activities, depending on their habits.

Why It Matters

This wasted time could be better utilized in skill-building, learning, or creative pursuits. Procrastination often results in last-minute work, which increases stress and reduces the quality of output. Over months and years, the cumulative effect of wasted time leads to missed opportunities and delayed goals.

Do you, your friends, or your children find themselves falling victim to this time-wasting syndrome?

Ravi Saripalle
Views are personal

You may also like

  • EdGe: Your Academic Co-pilot
    Published 7d+

🎓 Top B.A. (Hons.) Liberal Arts Colleges in India (2026)

Liberal Arts education in India is gaining momentum under the NEP 2020, offering flexible 3–4 year programs, multiple exit options, and research opportunities. Here’s a comprehensive look at

  • Dr. Ravi Saripalle
    Published 7d+

The Life Choices of India’s Brightest Minds

Dear Friends,Let's assume your son or daughter studied CSE at IIT Bombay. Right after graduation, he/she declares that they would not go after the software or corporate route. They want to explore

  • The Art of Teaching
    Published 7d+

Beyond Skills: Why Teachers Must Cultivate Visibility

As educators, teachers are the architects of future generations, meticulously shaping minds with skills, knowledge, and wisdom. Yet, in today’s interconnected world, being an exceptional teacher

  • EdGe: Your Academic Co-pilot
    Published 7d+

National Sanskrit University (NSU): A Comprehensive Overview

Rashtriya Sanskrit Vidyapeetha, now known as National Sanskrit University (NSU), is a central university located in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, India. Established in 1956 under the Ministry of Education

  • Bhanumurthy
    Published 7d+

Calcutta Chronicles: A Glimpse into the City of Joy

It happened to me recently, visiting Calcutta for a two-day training organized by ERLDC. Probably, Calcutta was the first city in India to witness an intellectual revolution mixed with traditional and

  • Dr. Ravi Saripalle
    Published 7d+

Career Planning

Is Your Job or Job Planning based on Your Body-Natural Intelligence or Degree/Marks? Out of 4 Types of Jobs, which One do you belong to? Self AssessDear Friends and Students  Often people

  • M. Shruti
    Published 7d+

LIFE OF AN ADOLESCENT

Who are adolescents?Adolescents are the persons who complete their childhood and enter the world of responsibility. At this age, we will acquire attributes and abilities that will be essential for

  • VENKATESH PANYAM
    Published 7d+

A tale of two Students

Dear students,"Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts." - Winston ChurchillTaking right decisions at the right time is the key for success.

  • Sri Chaitanya Ayyagari
    Published 7d+

Chemical engineering: For a better tomorrow

Role of Chemical Engineer in Pharmaceutical Industry:As the world is slowly recovering from the Pandemic of COVID crisis. We all know how much damage COVID 19 virus has done to humanity. Scientists

  • EdGe: Your Academic Co-pilot
    Published 7d+

Dual Degree ( B. Tech + M. Tech) 5years courses

Generally many students who are unable to enter into IITs for under graduation, prepare for GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering) exam to do Masters Degree in Technology after their B. Tech course.

  • EdGe: Your Academic Co-pilot
    Published 7d+

The Inspiring Educator Known as Physics Murthy

KODAVANTI SATYANARAYANA MURTHY, fondly known as “Physics Murthy,” is an esteemed physics lecturer whose passion for teaching and dedication to his students have made him a beloved figure in

  • K. Hanumantha Rao
    Published 7d+

Think Differently

A glance at Indian history reveals that India was not only a knowledge society but also an industrial society. Our intellectuals and researchers were called rishis. India was a rich and prosperous country,