The Social Media Charade

I am addicted to social media. You can say it too. How often do you find yourself reading through Facebook posts, scrolling through Twitter comments or […]

I am addicted to social media. You can say it too. How often do you find yourself reading through Facebook posts, scrolling through Twitter comments or making silly Snapchat videos? My vice is Twitter. I’m constantly reading sports news, political takes or the trolling of those just looking to get a response from others. Quite honestly, I understand what it is and I’m cool with it. However, there are some folks that aren’t in tune with the charade. The falsehood created by what we want each other to see about us. Until recently, I hadn’t given this much thought.

My business is people. I put great stock in building trust based relationships built on a foundation of genuine sincerity. In addition, I believe that there are two sides to every individual. The individual we actually are and the one we represent ourselves to be. If you want to add a third side which is what others perceive us to be, I’d be accepting.

Recently, a friend that I don’t talk to often reached out to say hello. He mentioned that he sees me everywhere and asked how I find time for myself? Due to the nature of my business, speaking and consulting gigs are a revenue roller coaster. There are times when business is booming and others when it is relatively slow. At the time of the conversation with my friend, I had been off work for several weeks, spending quality time with the family and prospecting. After reflecting for a brief moment I asked him, “I haven’t been that busy lately. Where did you get this impression?” His response, “Facebook.”

I try to use social media for connecting with others and growing the Fundamism community. While I don’t ever intend to only show the good things going on in life, I understand the impression social media posts can give others. As a result I try to be as authentic as possible and respect when others do the same.

I am addicted to social media. However, accepting the charade that it is and understanding that there are two sides to every individual plays a critical role in my usage. The individual we actually are and the one we represent ourselves to be. Accept the charade, be as authentic as possible and don’t get worked up about what others are posting. If so, you’ll be in a far better mental space and on an easier path to fulfillment in your day!