Exactly a year ago, I wrote, in How Social Media Became My Community of Support in a Year of Transition, about my great appreciation for the friends, acquaintances and colleagues on social media platforms and my commitment to nurturing those relationships.
As goals go, this one was quite successful and sustaining. Almost too successful. And at the expense of my offline engagement.
I love blogging – in so many ways, from exploring ideas to curating content and providing information, even as a form of therapy. My engagement on Facebook, Twitter and other social media platforms and the relationships nurtured there continues to be immeasurably meaningful.
But we haven’t evolved (?) to where human contact is not necessary. And, as the consuming nature of entrepreneurship demanded more time (hey, it’s as good an excuse as any… I kept telling myself), the convenience and comfort of my online relationships lulled me into complacency. A slippery slope.
In the new year I will attempt to find balance (if not synergy) in my offline and online lives. My own, for in today’s world, balance is subjective, individual, not static, but fluid. And it enhances the enjoyment, productivity and nurturing of both.
So I will continue my engagement online and delight in the wonderful relationships and discourse, but not at the expense of my offline life. And I’m not talking about moving the online relationships to IRL (in real life) engagements though I look forward to and appreciate when it happens. I’m referring to existing relationships, long-term friendships, dear family which require face time and consistency, where you leave feeling nourished and grateful.
I’m not sure exactly how I will accomplish this since both require a consistent investment of time, but look forward to the journey.
Happy New Year!
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Hi Tim,
You write so well! I appreciate the dilemma about communities online filling in for the lack of them offline. I agree that a balance is essential. I’m new to blogging and as I visit different blogs I’m more and more fascinated by the blogosphere – a community of communities overlapping and party-hopping. It’s fun and it energizes you, but doesn’t (and maybe shouldn’t) take the place of a real party!
Thanks for the thought-provoking reminder.
Lori
Thanks, Lori, you’re too kind. “Appreciating the dilemma” – I like that. And though balance may be the goal it’s defined differently for each of us. Couldn’t agree with you more about the blogging community – it’s energizing and sustaining.
Checked out your blog – it’s so positive and affirming – love it! Best wishes, though I hardly think you’ll need it
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