So, I used to be one of those people.
The one who obsessed over social media statuses. The one who thought another person was free game unless their status said so. The one who waited with baited breath for her partner to announce, for all their friends and family, the relationship in all of its official glory.
As you can imagine, I’ve changed my stance a little bit, and so far, it has been the healthy choice. So, to help you out, here are a few reasons why being “social media official” is not always a good idea.
Not Everyone Uses Social Media Religiously
Constantly inputting your data into your social accounts to make sure it’s all up to date is overrated, and it’s certainly a chore. Despite the stereotype about selfie-taking Millennials, there are actually very few people who use social media religiously. You shouldn’t feel like it’s your duty to keep it perfectly up to date. The important people who need to know the milestones in your life will already know about them.
Social Media Companies Mine User Data
These days, we’re more aware than ever that social media companies use our data for more than just “personalizing our experiences.” Every social media user should know that companies can mine and exploit anything they do online. Therefore, we must exercise caution when we use social media. A visible relationship status may still be important to you, but it’s hard to be mad at your lover if they don’t want Big Brother to know. It’s a damn good reason.
It’s Just Plain Not Safe
People around the world still perpetuate hate crimes on the basis of race, religion, and sexual orientation, even in so-called progressive countries. For some LGBTQ+ people, being out may be the difference between being fired and putting food on the table. For others, it could be the difference between getting along or falling out with their conservative friends and family. Some live (or have family) in countries where being different puts you in physical danger. Not everyone has the privilege to safely shout out their love on or off Facebook.
Of course, there is always the possibility that your partner won’t make you social media official because they don’t see the relationship in the same way as you. But regardless of the reason, the best way for you to find out is by talking to them about it. If the status change is so important to you, then it shouldn’t be a long discussion.
Who knows? You may find out that they were planning a nice surprise for you this whole time.
Featured Photo by Duri from Mocup on Unsplash.
