The Comfort in Not Sharing: Why Privacy Triumphs Over Public Sharing

Is there something wrong with me for not wanting to share my life on Facebook or any social media platform? This question might have crossed your mind if you have ever felt pressured to share your life with others through these digital mediums. The truth is, there is nothing wrong with choosing privacy over public sharing. People have different comfort levels and preferences when it comes to sharing personal information online. While some individuals value privacy and prefer to keep their lives more private, others enjoy the thrill of sharing experiences publicly. This article explores various aspects of why some people opt for privacy, from personal comfort to external pressures and the importance of self-care.

Engaging with Social Media: A Personal Choice

Engaging with social media should be a personal choice that aligns with your own values and feelings. People have the right to choose the level of interaction they want to have with social media platforms. If you prefer more private interactions or face-to-face communication, that is completely valid. Your comfort and well-being should always come first.

Consequences of Sharing and Non-Sharing

Once upon a time, I was a person who posted everything—clever, stupid, or just anything. But over time, I lost interest in sharing and now, I only post for marketing purposes or when I have a specific purpose. On the other hand, I know someone who stopped posting because of uncomfortable circumstances. They felt judged and feared how people would view them differently or treat them differently if they knew too much about their personal life.

Location plays a significant role in this decision as well. I currently live in a region where freedom of expression is heavily restricted. Even political posts can put you at risk. For instance, during my time working in a government institution, I was asked if I had posted anything controversial. Being politically aligned with the party was mandatory, even if it didn’t reflect my true beliefs. Additionally, I have relatives who hold different and less open-minded beliefs and co-workers who look into your social media to gauge your image. In such environments, the value of privacy is paramount.

Personality Types and Social Media Use

There are two basic types of personalities when it comes to social media use:

Extroverts—They crave massive attention and are comfortable with it. They recharge by being around large groups of friends. Introverts—They are mostly quiet and private. They recharge by being alone or with very few trusted individuals. Middleverts—They fall in between and their tendencies may vary depending on the situation.

However, these are not the only types. A significant number of people, around 80-90%, are 'lurkers'—silent participants who just watch and do not engage actively. This non-participation does not necessarily mean disinterest or opposition, but rather a preference for privacy and a need for personal space.

Why Privacy Matters

Privacy is crucial for well-being, especially in an age where so much personal information is out there. Setting your Facebook settings to allow only friends to comment on your posts can be a step towards maintaining your privacy. In this digital age, your image and reputation are everything, and maintaining a veil of privacy can protect your dignity and integrity.

In conclusion, the decision to share or not share on social media is a deeply personal one. It's important to choose what feels right for you, and to value your well-being and comfort over external pressures. By doing so, you can maintain your self-respect and preserve a healthy balance between the digital world and your real life.