Where do you stand on Social Media? Years ago, people kept their privacy to themselves and maybe friends and family for insight. Never would one share that they flatulated in public and cleared the theater, or spread untrue gossip to others. Bad example, but you know what I'm talking about. Gone are the days when journals and diaries were the most sacred possession. We are living our own lives yet we broadcast them for everyone to see. We are all guilty of it, myself included. But where do we draw the line? Are we seeking attention or approval?
Should we allow our children to participate? Would you let your child snap photos of themselves and post them on-line? Odds are that you wouldn't and if you would, be prepared for the consequences. I understand that being a cool parent may be treasured by your child, but their best interests will always outweigh being "cool". Sure, social media is meant to be social, but privacy should be top priority as well. I am not saying to regulate what you post, it's your "space". If you want to post a pic of yourself, your food, your outfit, go right ahead. There will always be those who will try to influence you negatively, whether on your post or behind your back.
Let's think back to when we were young. When we did something good, we told every one. Why? To get positive reinforcement and to seek approval and acceptance, depending on who you told. Would you ever tell your child other-wise? Probably not. Why do we do it today when we read someone's post or photo? Perhaps because we have nothing else better to do but criticize. Maybe we are seeing a side of our friends we never knew...
For those who didn't know, Facebook was originally used for college students. It was a great tool to keep in touch and share daily activities. MySpace was more of a social locker, posting your likes and interests. Remember Xanga or Zanga? It was an online diary that quickly faded away.
All of a sudden, we switched from AIM to the new social media because it was something new. Right now G+ is the quickly gaining traction as a true social network because individuals are able to reach across the globe and share insight as well as upcoming trends. Instagram is quickly being taken over by "Beliebers" and "One Directioners". I know because I started the hashtag #Iamabelieber and #I<31D...kidding, but you can tell where I'm going.
It doesn't matter what we do, we want people to know. But we need to be sure that we are willing to accept the reaction from others, good or bad. Be prepared for the worst, and expect the best. It's your "space" and not matter what, you are in control. Don't let others control your life, and never give them the chance to. That's your role in the social media.
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