My Thoughts on Social Media: LJ1

 Hello 👋  For my first learning journal topic, I'm here to discuss some of my opinions on social media.

Social media etiquette depends on who you are and what your role is in the social media community. It also depends on what platform you are using. For me, I try to apply my rules to all social media platforms that I use. A couple things I never do or post are offensive/obscene words/phrases and pictures, such as swear words, inappropriate items or actions, and comments that may be offensive to others. I typically stick to posting updates on my life, including proud moments, fun vacation pictures, my cute dog, and family/friends. In terms of commenting on others' posts, I'd say the same as the "don'ts" I mentioned above. Overall, if you don't have anything nice to say.... DON'T say it. When I first started using social media, I was about 14-15 years old and I used Twitter frequently. If I could go back, I would not have posted some of the things I did, which included swear words and probably a couple rude comments here and there. People, mostly adults, would see these things and it would always come back to me having to delete them. My parents had talked to me, disappointed, a couple times. I quickly learned, that is not the way I should be using social media. The Internet keeps a track record of all your posts, which can be seen by important people such as University staff and future employers. If I wouldn't want my parents or boss seeing it, I don't post it. 

I only use Instagram and Snapchat now, because I find them to be more of an intimate community. I only follow and allow followers from my friends or acquaintances, no random people. I find it a nice and fun way to express myself to those I don't often see, or maybe those who I don't see at all anymore. Sometimes I post selfies because I feel I look good and.... I'll admit... the attention is fun. But, I mostly stick to pictures with my family/friends and food or cool restaurants/scenes because that's what I find most interesting. Many people have an online presence to cover up how they truly feel or truly live day to day. No one really knows the true difference between one's online image and their true identity. I think that can be both a benefit and a downside to social media. I personally don't compare myself to others, besides maybe wishing I was where a follower posted, such as a beautiful country. However, many do compare themselves to the "beautiful," "rich," and "famous" and wish their lives were not what they are, which can lead to depression, anxiety, etc. If social media harms your self image or mental health, I recommend getting off all platforms. Forming real life and in-person connections are much healthier and can lead to much greater and more authentic happiness.