Troll-ing For Attention? Why You Should Keep Nastiness Off Social Media
A few years back, I had a friend who wondered why she wasn't meeting any single guys. On a whim, I checked out her Facebook page. She had the following memes posted:
1) That which does not kill you makes you stronger, except for Jersey Girls. Jersey girls will kill you.
2). I'm from Jersey. I may not know how to pump gas, but I know how to dig a hole.
3). I'm a Jersey Girl. I don't have an attitude problem. You have a perception problem.
What would you think if you were an eligible man checking out this lady on social media? While some people from New Jersey may think this is great public relations, people from 49 other states think, "WTF is her problem?" Who wants to tell their family, "Hey Mom! She's amazing! You'll love her! I met this really nice girl on the internet. Her hobbies are acting tough, everything is everyone else's fault, and killing men."
What you post on social media MATTERS. Whether you know it or not, your social media is checked by your friends, family, co-workers, employers, and clients. What you post on your page is a reflection of you. What you post on other people's pages or in groups is also a reflection on you.
I've posted about cyber bullying and the detrimental effects I've experienced as a result of running for my condo association board this past month. Much of this battle has been on Facebook, and I've declined to respond to the posts from the trolls trying to lure me out of silence. When I do respond, I respond with something positive.
Social media has woven itself into the fabric of our daily lives, serving as a platform for us to share our thoughts and experiences and connect with others. However, it's crucial to navigate this space with care and consideration. Here's why keeping nastiness at bay on social media is so important:
It Reflects on You: Remember, your social media profile is like a digital billboard advertising who you are to the world. Each post, comment, or share shapes people's perception of you. Negative or nasty remarks can tarnish your reputation in seconds, undoing years of building a positive image. Think of your online presence as a personal brand; you want it to represent the best version of yourself.
It Can Hurt Others: Behind every profile picture is a real person with feelings. Harsh words can inflict pain, damage self-esteem, and even trigger anxiety or depression. Before posting something negative, consider the impact your words might have. Empathy goes a long way—practice kindness, and remember the golden rule: if you wouldn't say it to someone's face, don't say it online.
It Perpetuates Negativity: When nastiness is allowed to fester on social media, it creates an environment where hostility thrives. This affects individuals and can discourage new users from engaging and drive away those looking for meaningful interactions. You contribute to a healthier, more welcoming online community by choosing positivity over negativity.
It Solves Nothing: Engaging in online spats rarely leads to any constructive outcome. Instead of resolving issues, nastiness often escalates conflicts and deepens divides. If you're passionate about a cause or believe there's a misunderstanding, approach the conversation respectfully and willing to listen. Dialogue with civility can lead to understanding and sometimes even consensus.
Your Account Could Be Banned: Social media platforms are increasingly cracking down on toxic behavior. Engaging in nastiness can result in consequences ranging from temporary suspensions to permanent bans. Losing your account means losing your network and the content you've created. It's simply not worth the risk.
It Can Lead to Legal Trouble: Depending on the severity of the comments, being nasty on social media can land you in hot water legally. Cases of harassment, threats, or defamation can result in legal action. The anonymity of the internet doesn't grant immunity from the law. Always be mindful that what you say online can have real-world repercussions.
In essence, social media should be a force for good—a place where ideas flourish, friendships blossom, and positive change is inspired. Keeping nastiness off your feed helps ensure that these virtual spaces remain enriching and enjoyable. Spread positivity, and let's make the digital world a kinder place!
