Think Before You Post

On social media, one has the chance to express themselves to anyone they wish. If you post something publicly, just about everyone can see it.

This can include your friends, family, colleagues, and strangers. It can even include your enemies. You might be able to get away with deleting something within a few seconds or a bit longer if you’re obscure. But keep it longer, and someone could very well screenshot what you posted.

As a result, it’s very important to think rationally before you post on the Internet. Otherwise, you might end up royally screwing yourself over.

Is It True?

For obvious jokes and fiction, you can skip over this one. They’re not meant to express the truth. Otherwise, read on.

It’s crucial to actually spread facts when one tries to spread factual information. This doubly goes for if serious accusations are being levied. So make sure to fact-check yourself before posting.

Ask yourself these questions:

-Are there other reliable and transparent sources corroborating your news?

-Is the media (videos, photos, etc.) you’re using as proof legitimate if it’s being used?

-How long ago were your sources posted? Are they outdated?

Is It Helpful?

Again, skip over this if you’re writing a lighthearted post not intended for self-improvement or mental health purposes.

When you attempt to spread information or give advice, it should ideally aid someone. For information, it should be factual and enjoyable to read at the very least for someone. For advice, it should help someone improve life.

Also consider how it helps yourself. Maybe it feels cathartic to post. Perhaps the resulting engagement gives you a temporary ego-boost.

Is It Illegal?

It’s very important not to break the law on social media. Jail isn’t fun and neither is a boring court case or paying fines.

This boils down to a few things. Don’t dox people’s personal information. Do not make a sophisticated murder plan on the Internet. Really, don’t threaten violence or blackmail over petty Internet feuds. Avoid abusing people. And of course, don’t be a creep holding onto CP and/or grooming minors.

A lot of legal laws also align with basic moral principles. Many legal systems are pretty mediocre - if not terrible. However, being complicit often doesn’t hurt others. If it does - risk the consequences or don’t get caught.

Is It Necessary?

This is somewhat related to the second principle.

Don’t take the heading too literally. The world will not end if you avoid posting whatever it is you’re planning to post.

That being said, is your desired post something you need to get off your mind? Will it provide good food for the algorithm to keep you getting recommended? Could other people be in active danger if a certain vile person dastardly deeds aren’t made known?

If your post isn’t needed per se under these criteria, that’s fine. Maybe you’ll cringe when looking back a few years later. But your cringe may be another’s fun.

Is It Kind?

This is a near-absolute which should be kept in mind before posting on social media.

Don’t be a jerk. There’s no need to harass or treat people like garbage. Remember your tone indicators if a statement could be taken as rude otherwise. There’s almost always someone else on the other side of the screen.

There is the occasional exception of legitimately bad people like abusers and sex pests. In those cases, don’t treat them with kitty gloves. Direct your kindness towards the victims instead.

…

If you consider these factors before posting in a place where you might never be able to completely take your post back, you should be good to go! Hopefully.

Any other thoughts on this? Let me know in the comments!

Medium version: https://medium.com/@SnarkyLisa/think-before-you-post-4d3aeadf4680

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