So what’s the first thing most people do as soon as they take a cute pic or they need a problem solved? In our social media driven world, we immediately take it to a platform. Getting instant input and feedback on every topic you can imagine is what it’s about, right? I totally get it. I love interacting with close friends and connecting with people I haven’t seen in years. It’s the perfect way to keep up with out of state relatives and friends. It also helps me find people who share my same passions, hobbies, careers and lifestyles.
But with the influx of so many social media platforms comes many problems. Different trains of thought, keyboard warriors, trolls, arguments and debates can take up so much of my time online. These conversations are draining to read. I have been feeling the need to retain my balance and positive space on social media. These are the steps I have been taking.
Unfriend
Simply put, the internet is not kindergarten. You do not have to be friends with everyone. If they are not contributing to your life in a positive way or on a day to day basis, then you don’t have to feel obligated to keep them on your list. Not everyone needs access to you.
Block
If you have unfriended someone who you feel puts out bad vibes but they are still popping up in your newsfeed due to mutual groups or boards, then you have the option of blocking them. I feel this is completely acceptable. There are several large national groups that I enjoy but inevitably there is always a person that ruins it for me. Perhaps personality wise we just don’t mesh? In an effort to protect my time and space, I will block bad vibes to make my social media usage more positive.
Unfollow
Do you have that one family member that you just really adore but that constantly overshares their life in a negative way? It’s ok to step back. You can do this by unfollowing them. It means that you still remain friends; however, their posts do not pop up in your daily feed.
Be selective
Read this twice :: You DO NOT have to accept all friend requests. Period. If you don’t want to approve or deny them, you can just leave them in request purgatory for awhile.
Clean out your groups
If your feed is full of groups that you aren’t sure why you’re in them, clean it up! Leave the ones you don’t interact with. Turn notifications off on ones you want to stay in but don’t want in your feed.
Think before you post
Let’s be honest. Not everything needs to go on social media. If you plan on posting something controversial, you can guarantee you’re going to get a debate going. While it’s fine to have strong feelings about issues, it’s also important to know time and place. Don’t find yourself being sucked into a 4 hour long argument with someone from another state or even another county. This is eating up time that you will never get back. Chose your battles wisely and choose where you invest your time.
