How Social Media Is Effective When Used For Good Instead Of Evil

Nothing is all good or all bad, including social media, despite rumors to the contrary

Social media is the ultimate equalizer. It gives a voice and a platform to anyone willing to engage. — Amy Jo Martin

Legends say that every soul born is born for a reason and with a purpose. This means the seemingly useless do indeed have a purpose, even when that purpose may not be clear. With that being said, the same goes for almost everything. For example, the darker side of the internet is something most are aware of by now.

We have been extensively warned about the dangers of social media and the damage it can cause. But where there is darkness, one can usually find light. Any tool takes on the intent of the user. If the user’s intent is dark, it will hurt. If the intent is pure, it can heal.

Connections are what life is about

There are hundreds of warnings about the dangers of using social media. Some blame social media for bullying, affairs and causing a disconnect in relationships. Those are very real dangers to be aware of. But, there are actually many instances where social media brings people together instead of ripping them apart.

In the past, prior to the invention of email and social media, any loved ones or family that were not in close proximity to each other quickly became unglued due to lack of contact. If lucky, they might have received an annual letter or Christmas card to update them on family news. The invention of the internet, social media and other apps has made it is easier than ever to stay connected with each other.

Loneliness is an issue all over the globe

Not everyone has a family to keep up with online. There are people every second choosing to end their lives instead of staying lonely. Now with these advancements, it is easy to form a friendship online or reach out to seek help anonymously. Connections are being forged among strangers all over the planet.

I could not be happier about this. It doesn’t offset the horrible things that happen via the Internet, but it does shine a little light on the positive. I choose to believe a community of friendship and support is more likely to save than hurt. Every time that I choose to believe the world is good, I am also closing a door to evil.

Mental Health is just as important as physical health

Social media is a double edge sword when it comes to mental health. On one hand, the presence of online bullies and the pressure to live up to the seemingly perfect lives of your online peers is enough to cause stress for anyone.

On the flip side, there are apps that help with stressors, mental health and many other of life’s conditions. Some of these apps promote happiness with exercises and games. Others provide a safe haven to vent anonymously and communicate with other like minded individuals. Hundreds offer guided meditations and breathing techniques to help alleviate stress and panic attacks.

These apps have personally helped my family, my marriage and myself tremendously. I admit I was blown away from the instant benefit I received with controlled breathing exercises and guided meditations.

Research away, but take everything with a grain of salt

Nobody needs an Encyclopedia set anymore since most are able to access information instantly with the Internet. This instant accessibility could also be both blessing and curse. I have used the Internet and social media many times to investigate people. I do this often when hiring, but I have also used it to gather information on my children’s questionable love interests.

I know it is wrong to judge a book by its cover, but it is one of my many flaws. A flaw that I share with many as it is human nature to judge. Our innate tendency to judge is one we should remember before we post pictures of our drunken antics on Facebook. And in the case of SnapChat, I advise to think twice about posting on there at all. Just because a post seems to have disappeared, doesn’t mean it did.

In the case of using the internet for research or education, one should also be aware that date does not have to be true or factual to be on the Internet. Read away, but absorb with caution.

You are responsible for everything you post and everything you post will be a reflection upon you. — Germany Kent

Trending topics are just a click away

As a writer, every tool I need to locate and research trending topics is at my fingertips. I cannot fathom writing without the ease of these tools. In my high school years, only the rich had computers at home. I had to use the library every time I wanted to research something and that required finding the time and a ride as well. It is s unknown if this instant accessibility will cause our youth to become more successful or technologically dependent.

Nothing is all good or all bad

In summary, social media is only as good or bad as the intent behind the user. It can benefit all when used correctly and it can damage when used with questionable intent.

Using the Internet and social media in moderation responsibly will prevent many of the damaging effects from taking hold. To stay grounded, we should always reach for advancement, while staying grounded in the past for balance. For balance is the key to everything.