In this age of social media, it is so easy to share every aspect of our lives. It takes such a relatively short time to post statuses that it is easy for the body to type faster than the rational brain can register. So often I see statuses, postings, etc. on various social media outlets that give me pause and I wonder what the writer’s real intention was behind them. Additionally, the audience is quite wide and it is easy to forget that. Even if your pages are private, if you’re like most, you have possibly hundreds of acquaintances that you don’t know well if at all. If Duchess Kate was a regular user of Facebook, Instagram, and the like, what would her modus operandi be when it comes to posting? I think that, if you want to post like a Duchess, the following points need to be kept in mind.
Don’t air your dirty laundry
Trouble with the spouse? Work situations have you stressed? Faceook is likely not your best outlet. It’s easy to forget all the people who can see a post and many of those people, upon reflection, should not be seeing certain information. For example, you could be bemoaning a co-worker and not realize that you are “friends” with another co-worker who then passes along your post! It’s easy to be caught up in the moment to vent but social media is a poor replacement of a journal or a good vent over the phone to a best friend.
Don’t post with the intention of making others envious
This type of post is difficult to ascertain. We are all proud of our goals and achievements and naturally want to share that with others. However, if the Duchess were posting for all to see, I can’t see her posting pictures of her brand new luxury vehicle or the diamond earrings that Prince William got her for Christmas. However, I do see her sharing 5k medals or success as a chairperson for a charity event. Perhaps it’s best to ask oneself what the purpose of a post is: is it to inspire or bring down?
Don’t be vague
We all know these posts: “I don’t know how much more I can take…”, “Ughhhhh”, “I’m so mad!”. These are all attention craving posts. The Duchess doesn’t crave attention because her very character is interesting. When she has something to say, people listen because they know that what will follow will be an educated, thoughtful response with purpose. She doesn’t need to lure them in.
Do inspire others
Be the positive presence in a negative world. Share your volunteer activities with a link others can click on to get involved as well. Share daily reflections that could help someone else. I could see the Duchess sharing information on a charity organization or local needs of her community. She would likely also be found offering encouragement when needed.
Do post with the intention to offer something positive
Whether it be to bring humor to someone’s day, share knowledge, or offer something informative, create posts that enrich your life and others. Engage others in uplifting conversation.
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