Some posts require lengthy explanation, however this one does not…

In the world we live in, we can get all of the bad news we could ever hope for by turning on the news, reading the paper, or surfing the news outlets on the web. Furthermore, we only have a limited amount of time to accomplish what we need to get done and that leaves only so much time to spend on Social Media. This limited time can become further convoluted between Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Google+, Klout, Empire Avenue, and a plethora of other options to devote our time and resources. To be successful we MUST commit to our goals.

One of these goals should be to avoid the rash of negativity that exists in social spaces. There are people in Social channels that are strictly there to stir the pot. They aren’t there to add to the conversation or bring new ideas, or even thoughtful criticism (I’m good with healthy debate so please know I am not suggesting that people don’t engage in such) . Nope, they are strictly there to ruin your experience and the experience of others.

To this I say…

Ban, Block, Ignore, Reject, don’t waste even a second paying attention to these people. In a space with hundreds if not thousands of people in which you can create a meaningful connection that will enrich your life in some way, why in the world would you waste your time on negativity.

As an example, I recently had a good friend who has been working on an amazing Social Good cause. One that has the potential to change people in a powerful way and if nothing else it is a positive message that creates good will if even for just a moment. Many people have rallied around this message, they have found it a valuable and easily shared cause that will make a difference. However, like so many others whom bring a positive light to the social stream, there are the naysayers. The ones who feel obligated to poke holes in the cause in a way that seems nothing more than self serving. (I opt not to name names as I don’t see it accomplishing anything meaningful)

Bottom line, this is your experience. Just like “Out there” in the world, you get to choose who you do and don’t want to engage and interact with.

My Recommendation; Choose wisely and leave the bullies and Headcases to divide and conquer one another on their own time. After all, if we don’t respond to them, they will have to respond to each other.