Facebook Dramarama.
I hardly ever use my Facebook anymore, more often than not I don’t feel like I have something terribly important to say. I stick with Instagram as my favorite social media outlet, followed by Twitter and tumblr. Do not get me wrong I enjoy Facebook, it is a great way to be able to make connections socially and/or professionally(although I do not recommend mixing work and play too much). Facebook allows me to check up and stay in touch with my friends and family that I don’t get to see too often, which is awesome since I am on the move a lot.
As of late when I log on to Facebook or check the app on my iPhone, there is a newer trend I have noticed. For every few happy and positive posts I see, I also see a negative one filled with comments. It is common for people to post their opinions on subjects that are a hot topic in the news. With that comes people that bully/disagree with the posters thoughts. This is so disheartening to me. Although this isn’t the main reason why I shy away from Facebook, I don’t generally love the bullying comments factor.
The very first question that you are asked when you are making a post on any social media networking site generally asks, what is on your mind or what is happening in the present moment.
Facebook specifically asks - “What’s on your mind?” - It is an open question that you can answer however you wish.
Now, lets take a step back and look at Facebook’s own short description - “The Facebook Page celebrates how our friends inspire us, support us, and help us discover the world when we connect.” And Mission Statement - “Founded in 2004, Facebook’s mission is to give people the power to share and make the world more open and connected. People use Facebook to stay connected with friends and family, to discover what’s going on in the world, and to share and express what matters to them.”
No where in the above statements is there a line about being rude, a bully or telling people that their opinions are wrong just because they are different than your own. If you are connected on Facebook you are usually friends with that person or have something you share that has led you to connect.
Friends are supposed to support each other. Sure talking about topics such as religion, politics, and sex will most likely lead to a heated discussion because they are sensitive issues. Being able to respectfully disagree will go a long way. If you can’t find a way to understand your friends viewpoint. Ask questions. State facts on the subject, they are usually non-personal and less emotional. Use "I" statements to communicate how you feel, using "you" statements can be much more harsh and comes across negatively. No one wants to feel attacked for simply stating how they feel on a subject.
Remember, social media lasts for a very long time, even after it is deleted. Before you post a comment on a subject you highly disagree with, take a moment. Think to yourself - Will I feel this way in a month? In 6 months? In a year? Will I be ashamed or feel embarrassed if a potential employer or my future self reads this? Would I be able to say this to the persons face? It is easier to write down hateful or heated comments than to say them aloud.
My Takeaway - People will always try to push your buttons or disagree with you. Ditch those people or keep them around and try not to fuel their cranky comment fire if/when it occurs. There is no dislike button on Facebook, so keep happy posts coming, like away and spread some positivity in your network.