I spend a lot of my time on Facebook throughout the day. I always laugh when I see people proclaiming their disillusionment with Facebook and leaving the platform. They’ve decided there’s too much politics and controversy on the platform, so they leave. And then they’re back in a week or so, equally frustrated, but finally giving in.
Well, I’ve been doing something lately that has made my Facebook consumption so enjoyable. I’ve been systematically hiding people, hiding apps, and changing settings. I imagine the Facebook algorithm they’re using to serve me information is rather complex. But it’s worth it.
I’m hiding anyone who consistently posts discouraging stuff. Anyone who posts inflammatory stuff. And anyone I don’t know or don’t have an investment in their life.
What does that leave me?
It leaves me great content. I can celebrate with my friends who just had a new baby and enjoy all the pics. I can see great links that aren’t all about vaccines, Obama, or gun control. I no longer have to curse under my breath as “Mary” sends me her 50th Candy Crush Saga invite…I no longer get any Candy Crush Saga invitations nor any app invitations from “Mary”.
I’m going through hiding all the clutter and noise from my network of friends. It’s an ongoing process, but I feel the greatest peace every time I Unfollow someone.
To be honest, I’ve probably only unfollowed about 100 people—100 out of 1750+. But those were the squeaky wheels that either discouraged me throughout the day or made me hopeless for humanity.
Plus I get the benefit of not having to sever relationships or deal with people adding my back in a couple of weeks when Facebook suggests me as a friend.
So I ask you… Who do you need to hide? It might be me. Go for it. But add some peace into your life by cutting out some things.
Can’t repeat this enough… good topic!