Let’s be real: many folks in the older generations have voiced an opinion about social media that sounds a bit like this: “Facebook isn’t doing anyone any favors when it comes to happiness.” One gentleman recently shared, “Instead of making plans and hanging out in person, everyone’s just typing away on their screens like hermits. It’s ruining real human connections.”
But I have to disagree. Yes, face-to-face interactions can be more thrilling and effective at building relationships than a quick message on Facebook. However, dismissing Facebook entirely because it doesn’t measure up to in-person meetups is an example of letting perfect be the enemy of the good.
From my perspective, Facebook is a fantastic tool for keeping in touch with a wider circle of people than I could ever manage through more traditional methods. It helps me keep up with friends who might change their email addresses or move around the globe. It also provides a casual way to reach out to acquaintances without the pressure of a phone call or even sending a letter!
Take this morning, for example. I met up with “Ella,” an old friend I hadn’t seen in ages. Our friendship blossomed back when I briefly moved to San Francisco after college and lived with my roommate, who was dating a guy with a great crew of friends, including Ella.
After I left the sunny Bay Area, I bounced around from New Haven to New York City, then to Washington, D.C., and back to New York again. Ella, on the other hand, took quite the journey herself, moving from San Francisco to Cambridge, then New York, Kampala, Boston, Nairobi, and finally back to New York City!
We were never the closest of friends, and I lost touch with her over the years. But thanks to Facebook, Ella found me, and we reconnected. It was such a joy, especially when we discovered we live just thirteen blocks apart! Who knew?
Research shows that strong relationships are vital to our happiness. We all need close friends to confide in, share experiences with, and receive support from. A study even suggests that having at least five friends to discuss life’s big questions can significantly increase your happiness. And during a mid-life crisis? A common lament is the absence of true friends.
So, anything that helps you maintain those friendships, even if it’s just through a social media platform, can definitely add a little more joy to your life.
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In summary, Facebook may not replace the joy of meeting in person, but it certainly helps in nurturing friendships that can contribute to your overall happiness. So, don’t underestimate the power of a simple “like” or a comment!