Midlife Madness Episode 7: The One About Navigating Social Media in Midlife

Sometimes social media can be a bit, well, un-nerving! How can we make it pleasant? How can we use it best for our benefit? Leslie & Marie have some fun sharing personal stories and useful tips on how to navigate social media in midlife.

What does social media have to do with Midlife?

In a March 2019 article about Social Media in midlife, written by Carol Parker Walsh, she states that studies have found that for women in midlife, social media can enrich opportunities for support, connection, and networking. These increased opportunities have positive implications for women’s health, wellbeing and livelihood.

Admittedly, it can be tough, especially for midlifers who are uncomfortable with technology. 

THE BEST ADVICE WE CAN GIVE - Write down your password! 

Hearing from our Listeners

When we asked our Facebook followers what frustrated them most about social media, there were some very passionate replies.

Cathy said - People airing their dirty laundry! Some things should be private! Also, vague posts, just say it or don’t.

1. Alberta said - News stories without facts.
2. Maggie said - Attention seekers and dramatics.
3. Tara said - Meanness (It’s so easy to be mean on social media when you don’t have to look someone in the eye.)

Questions to ask yourself before you post on social media:

1. Would I be embarrassed if my kids/parents/grandparents read this?
2. Would I embarrass my kids/parents/grandparents if I post this?
3. Is this offensive or vulgar?
4. Is this factual or does it simply support my opinion?
5. Would I want my pastor to read this?
6. Would you say it to someone’s face?
7. Is my message cryptic or attention seeking?

We have a challenge for you today:

Use the T.H.I.N.K. test

• Is it True?
• Is it Helpful?
• Is it Inspiring?
• Is it Necessary?
• Is it Kind?

If you can’t answer yes to at least one of these questions when you are posting, we challenge you to post something positive or encouraging instead and hashtag #midlifemadnesspodcast or tag our Facebook page in your post so we can see that you accepted the challenge. 

Social Media Etiquette

1. Be Mindful when tagging photos.
2. Don’t use social media to vent.
3. Understand that not everybody “get’s” your sense of humor.
4. Don’t start a fight online that you wouldn’t be willing to start in person. Agree to disagree.
5. Don’t drink and post.
6. When in doubt, wait 24 hours to see if your post is a good idea.
7. If the little voice inside head is telling you not to post something, don’t post it. That voice is usually right.
8. Don’t be cryptic or passive aggressive in your posts.
9. If you regret it, delete it.
10. Be responsible and empathetic towards others (Kobe Bryant - Jim’s cancer).

Tips to help you stay sane and not get upset when on social media:

1. Use your privacy settings.
2. Block people!
3. If you find that you compare yourself to others, remember that you are seeing their highlight reel, not their blooper reel.
4. Silence someone without un-friending on Facebook (snooze, unfollow).
5. Have different accounts for business and personal.
6. Not everybody is going to like you.

We would love to hear from you! You can find Midlife Madness on our Facebook page or our website at www.midlifemadnesspodcast.com.  

If you like hanging out with us, please add us to your podcast subscriptions and give us a rating or review. It helps us build our Midlife Madness community.

And don’t forget, you are enough right where you are.