This is a topic I’ve wanted to post about for a while, and with all the other posts coming out this week, I decided I might as well. I know this post makes it seem like I’m thinking too much on such a mundane topic, but I’d like to hear your thoughts. I’m not really one to comment on people’s social media posts – I’ll just like your Instagram or Facebook post and be on my way. I’ve always wondered, though, what kind of responses are appropriate and which ones aren’t? Clearly, when people post outlandish or “interesting” things on to social media, they’re hoping to solicit some sort of reaction from others. What kinds of reactions do you think people admire? And what kinds are better kept to yourself? Let’s look at a few common examples I see all the time…

  • People posting pics of their children or pets, like almost everyday
  • Pictures of their SO, or them and their SO out enjoying themselves
  • Posts about new jobs, hobbies, etc
  • Posts about a new pyramid scheme you should sign up for
  • (More recently) Pandemic conspiracies
  • Guys posting pics with their cars
  • Guys posting random shirtless gym pics
  • Girls posting bikini pics
  • Venting about their day, their relationship, etc
  • Reviewing some new products they purchased such as tech or makeup
  • People posting pics of their extravagant lifestyles or exotic vacations

Like I said, I never really go out of my way to comment on people’s posts. I’ll leave a like so the number can help you feel good about yourself, but that’s it. Comments on people’s pics of themselves are usually along the lines of “Looking great!” with a few thirsty ones. Comments on pics of cars, tech, hobbies usually discuss the specs of the topic at hand. Pics of children/pets get comments such as “Beautiful family!” or “Very cute!”.

Do you (or your friends) share pics of their children, car, or hobbies? Do you post lengthy reviews about some new item you bought, or maybe you post a pic in that new swimsuit you purchased? Do you like to share pics of all the tropical vacations you can afford? What kind of responses do you like to see, what kinds are “normal” or appropriate, and which ones aren’t?