I’ll be the first to admit it. I’m guilty of posting a status update to Facebook haphazardly with little regard for how it may be received, or even how I will be perceived. It’s easy to do in a society where smartphones and social media make instant gratification so easily obtainable.
Indeed I can think of a few instances where I posted something emotionally, but then later thought better of it. Thank God for delete! But still, it was out there momentarily. I typically try to think before posting, but mistakes are easily made.
With screen shots and how quickly accessible posted information becomes available to the masses some forethought prior to publishing every grim detail of life is advisable.
So here’s a few tips:
For one, you should never post a status in anger. When you’re mad you don’t think logically. You don’t think things through, but rather you just react. And you definitely don’t consider the possible ramifications of your harshly typed words.
Little thought is put into the possibility of broken relationships or the feelings of another. A bit of hindsight may prove useful. Taking a step back from a situation typically sheds more light on it. You can then assess if your reaction is justifiable. Although in my opinion Facebook is never the appropriate avenue to justify your wrath against another individual.
It’s also not a place to criticize others. Remember that it is a public forum, viewable by everyone, even people you do not know. When you point accusations or judgement on another person they’re not the only one who looks bad. That’s right. You look bad too.
Remember no one likes mean people. They may act civil because they fear your cruel retaliation, but you do not have their respect for being a descent human being.
And then I’ve noticed this common occurrence; the inability to be consistent in what you post. As a good person this is important. As a Christian it’s paramount.
What I mean is this. You cannot post a status that contains a Bible verse on Monday, but then post a link to “Big Busted Co-Eds” on Friday. Yes I’ve seen this. Sigh.
All I’m saying is that you may want to think about what you’re posting. Would you kiss your mother with that mouth? If they did a slide show at your funeral that consisted of your Facebook postings would your family and loved ones be ashamed? Would you?
What about your pictures? When you take a selfie, or your friend takes your photo is it an image that represents how you want to be perceived?
If you’re an alcoholic then perhaps the consistent and repetitive photos of you glossy-eyed or falling down with your skirt around your waist are appropriate. I’m just grateful Facebook wasn’t around in my rebellious twenties.
Keep in mind that once images are shared on the internet that they are there forever. “Hey kids, look at Grandma at the club!”
Also keep in mind that what may seem like a good wardrobe choice today may not look that way tomorrow, and some areas of flesh are better left on your camera roll.
I get a fair amount of event/party invites on Facebook, and I don’t usually mind. But there is one party I can’t stand to attend. A pity party. It’s cool. We’ve all done it, but there comes a time when enough is enough.
I promise everyone is not out to get you. Everyone isn’t plotting against you, and even Murphy’s Law has to lay off sometime. So relax. In the mean time, don’t make ambiguous status updates about how unfair life is.
I know that sounds harsh, but sometimes perspective can change everything. I just want you to realize that there’s always someone who has it far worse than you do. They’re just not sharing it on Facebook.
Keep in mind that your positive words may be the first and only ones that someone on your Newsfeed receives today. Be a fountain; not a drain.
We all want to be right. That’s human nature I suppose. But Facebook is probably not the best outlet with which to prove a point to another individual or win a personal argument. While I’ll shamefully admit that your drama is entertaining, and much like a train wreck I have trouble not looking; the bottom line is I’d just rather not see it.
But the thing is, once it’s seen it cannot be unseen. The level to which you have stooped cannot be ignored, and you have sufficiently, although likely unintentionally, shown an ugly side of your personality you probably wished in retrospect you had kept to yourself.
If you have a beef to pick with someone do it on your own private turf. The rest of us will look at pictures of puppies and babies. And if we really want drama we’ll turn it to the Lifetime channel.
Perhaps that’s a bit stern, but please consider it tough love. Something we all need sometimes.
Facebook is a fun way to connect, but sometimes we all act in a bolder more crass manner when not face-to-face with others. It’s easy to hide behind a screen, and forget that the ones reading your words are real people with real feelings.
Just like how grandma always said, “don’t act like that in public,” so too should your online presence be. Our words should give the impression of the person we wish to be, and how we truly desire to be seen.
Don’t forget that what you say, even via typed text, is a direct reflection of who you are. So what does your Newsfeed say about you?
So what did I miss? Comment below.