Find a silver lining and free yourself from any negative thinking, especially when interacting online. Here tips on how to stop being a social media “Debbie Downer”:
- Avoid emotional posts that may have even bigger consequences. If you are angry, it is not the time to vent online even if you have been wronged. Today you may complain about your cell phone service via Twitter. In a few months, you may wish to work for that company. One of their employees can search Twitter to find out what you really think of their service. Most of your online activity (blog comments, tweets, etc) last forever. It is not the forum to vent temporary criticisms.
- Keep in mind that we all kill the messenger. The bearer of bad news online is often associated to the negative emotion we felt when we first found out the unfortunate news. If the depressing news is public information, you must think about the overall harm of associating your brand with this data.
- Anyone can complain. True leaders create solutions. When online, show that you are working on making your industry or profession better by sharing inspirational ideas and best practices. Pointing out all of the problems won’t win you any supporters or increase your professional brand. Start a thought-provoking conversation and influence change.
If you have a friend that is unknowingly a social media “Debbie Downer”, provide honest advice without being rude. Take time to have a face-to-face conversation over some coffee to find out more about where the root of their negativity sprouted. Often one's pessimistic social media behavior online is a symptom of a bigger issue. You may find an opportunity to pay-it-forward.