I am an ardent Bitcoin enthusiast, deeply passionate about the opportunities it presents and the world it shapes. My desire to support and advocate for Bitcoin’s success is by no means an isolated sentiment.

Yet, occasionally, what seems counterproductive can indeed prove beneficial.

For Bitcoin, constructive criticism serves as a useful dialogue. Correcting misguided assumptions is valuable. Highlighting potential risks adds substance to discussions. Questioning discrepancies between objectives and actions can foster productive debate.

Conversely, unfounded or illogical criticism doesn’t contribute to meaningful dialogue. Voicing opinions without thorough understanding, appealing to authority or intuition over well-researched facts, or refusing to grasp the varying use cases for different individuals aren’t productive.

While many might theoretically agree with the above, our human emotions often obstruct this ideal practice.

Receiving criticism is unpleasant. Delivering criticism, regardless of its validity, can be satisfying. Immediate gratification is a potent feeling. These realities are integral to the human experience.

The consequences are an echo chamber where noise dominates and significant insights are muted. The insightful and far-sighted individuals in Bitcoin are frequently overlooked, dismissed, or metaphorically shot down. This unhelpful habit isn’t tied to market fluctuations.

Messengers are dismissed during bull markets, bear markets, and periods of stagnation. The ones left bearing the metaphorical bullet wounds are those who persistently reiterate their important messages. Here’s a review of some of these neglected pieces of advice:

• For Bitcoin to symbolize security, freedom, and human rights, refrain from sharing public photos without consent.
• To ensure users’ physical security, avoid collaborating with third-party marketing firms lacking adequate security measures. Minimally, implement separate emails for marketing and account access.
• If decentralization is the goal, refrain from promoting excessive mining in your locality, company, or country.
• Don’t claim comprehensive privacy for a product or service when it’s not entirely accurate.
• If your organization is committed to defending digital civil liberties, stand up against legislation that undermines them. Yes, Electronic Frontier Foundation, I’m looking at you.
• If promoting responsible financial behavior, don’t encourage reckless investments in Bitcoin, such as maxing out credit cards or mortgaging homes.
• Avoid equating Bitcoin with weapons if the aim is a peaceful revolution.
• To aid understanding, refrain from drawing irrational comparisons when explaining Bitcoin, as highlighted in a recent article by Stephen Livera in Bitcoin Magazine.
• (Feel free to add your if-then points here.)

If the above doesn’t seem significant, attempt to defend the counterarguments robustly. With the possible exception of the last point, all these issues pose real threats to individuals’ physical safety and security. They’re all integral to what Bitcoin aims to achieve.

Human incentives often prioritize instant gratification over long-term outcomes. It requires humility, diligent research, and a willingness to engage in constructive dialogue to address these and other technical and business challenges that need resolution.

Let’s make 2023 a year where we don’t shoot down important messages or their bearers. Instead, let’s reevaluate our immediate gratifications and align them with our goals for Bitcoin, creating a happier year for all, not just a select few.

Added Value: Embracing this shift in attitude towards criticism and dialogue in the Bitcoin community can lead to greater inclusivity, transparency, and innovation. It can foster an environment that not only tolerates differing viewpoints but encourages them, driving the development of more robust, user-friendly, and secure solutions. Remember, productive discourse isn’t about winning an argument; it’s about working together to shape a better future for Bitcoin.