It’s increasingly evident that our society is continually being asked to settle for good enough rather than demanding better. The advent of self service hotels and fast food kiosks have provided convenience while removing the need for human interaction and a high level of service. Efficiencies have no doubt been gained but those gains aren’t always trickling down to the end customer. How are we continually paying more when we’re being asked to do the work for ourselves?
My wife and I stayed in an aforementioned self service hotel this past weekend. We “checked in” by receiving codes, one that opened the building door and another that opened our room. The entire process was quick and easy. Our only interaction with anyone was via text and email. None of this is negative necessarily; however, these efficiencies weren’t reflected where it matters most. The cost of the room.
Less than five years ago, I could’ve rented a similar room at 25% less with a full staff to assist with the process of checking in and out. The onsite staff would’ve cleaned the room and helped with any general questions I had during my stay. Although I don’t miss the onsite staff, it’s difficult to wrap my mind around why the cost of the room isn’t less. After all, I’m being asked to manage everything myself.
The same can be said for fast food. On a recent drive thru experience, the voice on the intercom wasn’t that of a human but of an AI generated persona. After I ordered and reached the window to retrieve my food, it appeared there were two employees running the entire restaurant. This same restaurant would’ve required double or perhaps triple that number of people to run it a few short years ago. The food continues to be subpar, pricing only goes up and service is at an all time low. We’re paying more to receive far less in every aspect.
On a trip to visit a relative this past summer, my youngest daughter had the opportunity to interact with several adults on a variety of subjects. As she walked away, one of the women she had been speaking with remarked on her manners and how polite she was. Although I do believe my daughter is well mannered, I wouldn’t say she’s exceedingly so. Yet, because she consistently says “please” and “thank you,” she often stands out compared to other kids her age.
Standing out while providing the bare minimum says a lot about societal standards these days.
Where men once wore hats and full suits prior to entering an airport lounge, men of a similar age today don a set of pajama pants, oversized shirts and a pair of crocks. Loungewear is perfectly acceptable attire. There will be no judgements or preconceived notions. Is this bad? I wouldn’t say that necessarily; however, having zero standards in all things invites sub par effort and a sense of good versus great. There’s also less pride and care because there’s nothing to reach for. Average is the standard so why do more?
I’m constantly amazed when something I buy works as it was intended. Keep in mind, this is a purchase, not anything that’s been gifted to me or happened to be free. It should work, that’s why I bought it. The disposable mindset has me replacing the item before I’ve even used it. The efficiency and convenience of Amazon delivering the item to my door in one day or less means very little if it doesn’t work as intended.
Perhaps it’s time to let loose.
Grab my crocks. I’ve got a flight to catch.
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