Hey there, crypto enthusiasts! If you've been scrolling through X lately, you might have stumbled upon a thought-provoking post by Ryan Watkins, a well-known voice in the blockchain space. Posted on July 15, 2025, at 17:21 UTC, Ryan dropped a truth bomb about the hype surrounding Layer 1 (L1) blockchains and the metrics we all tend to obsess over. Let’s dive into his take and unpack why building a platform people actually use might be the real secret sauce.

The Metric Obsession Trap

Ryan points out a fascinating pattern: every time a new L1 blockchain breaks out—like Ethereum, Solana, or Hyperliquid—people scramble to pinpoint a single metric that explains its success. For Ethereum, it was Total Value Locked (TVL), which measures the amount of assets staked or locked in a blockchain's decentralized finance (DeFi) ecosystem. Solana’s rise was tied to Revenue (REV), reflecting its transaction fees, while Hyperliquid’s buzz came from its buyback programs, where tokens are repurchased and burned to boost value.

But here’s the kicker—Ryan argues that fixating on these metrics misses the bigger picture. It’s like trying to recreate a hit recipe by copying one ingredient without understanding the whole dish. TVL, REV, and buybacks are just symptoms of success, not the cause. So, what’s the real driver behind these breakout L1s?

The Magic of User Adoption

The core of Ryan’s message is simple yet powerful: just build a great platform that people use. Think about it—Ethereum didn’t skyrocket because of TVL alone; it became a hub because developers and users flocked to its robust smart contract capabilities. Solana gained traction due to its lightning-fast transactions, attracting dApps and traders. Hyperliquid’s buybacks only work because people are already engaged with its ecosystem.

This aligns with what we see in the meme token world at Meme Insider. Successful meme coins like Dogecoin or Shiba Inu thrive not because of some magic metric, but because communities rally around them, driving real usage. It’s the same principle: adoption fuels growth, not the other way around.

What the Community Thinks

Ryan’s post sparked a lively discussion on X. Some, like @CatfishFishy, pushed back, arguing that metrics like REV and buybacks directly benefit token holders, unlike TVL, which is more of a broad indicator. Others, like @MeshClans, asked the million-dollar question: “Which platform are people using the most?” The thread even got a creative twist with @MeshClans sharing an image of a mystical gathering, hinting at the “divine spark” of user-driven success.

This community input reinforces Ryan’s point—people are the heart of any blockchain’s success. Whether it’s a meme token or a serious L1, engagement trumps metrics every time.

Building for the Future

So, what does this mean for blockchain practitioners? If you’re tinkering with a new L1 or even a meme token project, focus on creating a platform that solves real problems or sparks joy—think usability, speed, or unique features. Check out Investopedia’s guide on Layer 1 vs. Layer 2 to understand the tech basics, or dive into Medium’s best practices for scalable blockchains for inspiration.

Ryan’s advice is a reminder that chasing trends won’t guarantee success. Instead, build something people love, and the metrics will follow. What do you think—got a favorite L1 that nails this approach? Drop your thoughts in the comments, and let’s keep the conversation going!