Imagine if sending an email cost 50 cents, posting on social media cost 10 cents, or sharing a picture cost 25 cents. What would that mean for how we communicate, market, and advertise? This isn’t a new idea, but it’s one worth exploring. If communication carried a monetary cost rather than being “free,” it would fundamentally change the way we interact.
Would I pay 10 cents to publish this article on LinkedIn? Maybe not. But if I did, I’d be much more thoughtful about its content. I’d do more research, edit meticulously, and ensure the message was truly worth sharing. That shift—from “free” to a tangible cost—could lead to better communication and more meaningful exchanges.
The Hidden Costs of "Free" Communication
Right now, communication often feels free. We fire off countless emails, post millions of pictures, and share on social media without hesitation. But is it really free?
Take email, for example. A typical professional receives 100–150 emails daily. If we assume 15 seconds to read each email, that’s about 30 minutes a day. Factor in switching costs—the time lost moving between tasks—and that number jumps to 2–3 minutes per email. Add in replies, and suddenly you’re spending 4+ hours a day on email alone.
Now, imagine if each email cost 50 cents. Would we send as many? Likely not. We’d condense our thoughts, combine messages, or opt for quicker alternatives like calls or in-person conversations. Communication would become more efficient, purposeful, and valuable.
Value in Communication
This idea isn’t just about email; it’s about the value of communication. Take advertising as an example. A Super Bowl ad costs over $10 million, including production, media buy, and pre-promotion. That enormous price tag ensures these ads are polished, creative, and impactful. They make us laugh, cry, or think, creating direct value for viewers.
Compare that to most online ads on platforms like Facebook or Twitter. Many of these ads are easily ignored—adding no value and failing to capture attention. Worse than a negative reaction, these ads are met with indifference. And as the saying goes:
