I recently discovered that a distant relative of mine had decided to “unfriend” me on social media. At first, I was a bit surprised. We may not see each other often, but our occasional encounters at family gatherings had always been friendly. My initial reaction was to wonder if I had inadvertently upset her. However, it soon dawned on me that our vastly different political views might be the reason behind her decision.
Over the years, we’ve managed to maintain a polite dialogue despite our differences, but with the current political climate stirring up strong emotions, I could understand why she might want to avoid my posts expressing my frustrations. She opted for a quiet exit, no drama involved, and honestly, I couldn’t be upset about that. Everyone is entitled to choose who they engage with online, just as they are in real life.
Social media can be a refuge for many, a space where we can connect with like-minded individuals and share our thoughts and feelings. For parents especially, it’s often a brief escape from the chaos of daily life, a chance to interact with adults who can relate to our experiences without the distractions of parenting.
In the past, I was more inclined to accept friend requests from almost anyone. However, over time I realized that social media had shifted away from that initial sense of community and safety. When the political landscape became more divisive, I needed a space where I could voice my concerns without facing constant criticism. That prompted a significant decluttering of my friend list, which was liberating. Some people I simply unfollowed to keep the door open for future connection, while with others, I felt it best to sever ties completely.
Unfriending isn’t inherently negative; it’s simply a way to establish boundaries. It doesn’t imply any animosity—it merely indicates that the connection on social media no longer serves you. If someone’s posts evoke feelings of discomfort or negativity, why continue the interaction?
That said, if someone shares blatantly harmful content—be it racist, sexist, or otherwise hateful—I consider that a solid reason to end the relationship, both online and off. There’s no need to tolerate such negativity in your life.
It’s essential to remember that social media can trigger stress for many. The constant barrage of bad news, coupled with the potential for comparison with others, can weigh heavily on our mental health. We often fear judgment for expressing ourselves, which can lead to feelings of unease.
Life is full of challenges, so why invite more negativity into your online experience? If someone online makes you feel less than great, don’t hesitate to unfriend or unfollow them.
If my posts on politics or family life ever become a source of discomfort for you, I completely understand if you choose to disconnect. We can still maintain our real-life friendship, and sometimes, stepping back on social media can actually strengthen those bonds.
Ultimately, social media should be a positive space—a sanctuary for connection and support. Don’t hesitate to shape it into what you need, even if that means hitting the unfriend button now and then. No regrets, no guilt, just a little more peace in your online space.
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Summary
Unfriending on social media can feel surprising, but it doesn’t have to be taken personally. It’s a way to establish boundaries and prioritize your mental well-being. Social media should be a positive space that reflects your needs, and if that means disconnecting from certain individuals, so be it.