Many Americans and people all over the world have Social Media accounts used for entertainment, information sharing and, to connect with others. Whether you prefer Snap, Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook you grow your contacts through personal connections or many times through friends and family of others. What happens, however, when the other is an ‘EX?’ You know, someone you once had a relationship with? Now, among your friends list sits their mom and dad, their favorite cousins, and their mother’s best friend that happened to join you for dinner on that one day. Oh, and let’s not forget the uncle that is a full-time hustler and his third wife, one of which been in you DM ever since you met.
So, what do you do? Do you “unfriend” the entire family? Do you create a new social media account and become more selective about the friends you make? Do you leave them there and have a constant reminder of a relationship that didn’t work? I am not talking about the family members you know really well. I am talking about people you barely met. There was a function you attended and may have enjoyed each other’s company for a minute. You accepted a friend request, so you don’t seem rude.
Even if you cut all communication with your EX, there will always be a family member that will continue to react to your posts. Whenever they are tagged or linked in a post by one of your mutual friends, you will be made aware. Because of social media they will always be in your life. You cannot go dark because simply because the benefits of social media out-ways the perils. Perhaps that is why so many people create new accounts.
The reality is you will always be connected. Mentally we always have been. Everyone thinks about an ex from time to time. A song, an event, a location, or even an old photo could be a reminder. Now, however, you are just a few taps away from actually getting a brief and perhaps and artificial glimpse into their life.
Ultimately, we all have to be cognizant to the reality that if your ex actively uses social media, they will always be connected to you and members of your family. Be a bit more selective in your relationship. Maybe you should check out their social media before getting too serious.