Time: < 30 Minutes
STEP 1: Think about why you want to post what you are about to post. Is it to vent? To share useful information? Is it to make people laugh? To share fun activities that you and your family are participating in? If it is anything that is derogatory, negative or will alienate 50% of your readers, consider NOT posting it. Ask yourself what you are looking to gain from this post and if there is another way to get what you want that won’t harm or anger others. Don’t just hit “share” without having this conversation with yourself.
STEP 2: Consider what could happen if you choose to share something negative/toxic/accusatory online:
- Friends will/might see you in a different, more negative light
- Friends might get angry because they vehemently disagree with you
- Friends may respond negatively to your post and/or start an online argument
- Friends might feel frustrated or deflated by your attitude and opinion
- You will get unfriended/unfollowed, so your voice will no longer be heard by that person
- You will alienate A LOT of people, perhaps unintentionally
STEP 3: If you think you have said negative things in the past that may have already caused harm to people you love/care about, either delete the post, or give a blanket apology and start fresh. People will appreciate the gesture, regardless of past hurt.
STEP 4: If you want to use your social media outlet as a place where you can vent, that is your choice, but recognize that there is a cost associated with it.
“People take different roads seeking fulfillment and happiness. Just because they’re not on your road doesn’t mean they’ve gotten lost.” ~ Dalai Lama
