While I am an avid user of many of the social platforms out there today, I have never really bought into the idea that these platforms were somehow an improvement on how people already communicate. They certainly have their strengths and place in the world. For example: I think Facebook is a great way to stay in touch with those who are less close to you–people who simply wish to skim your life; Twitter is perfect for sharing thoughts of yours with a large audience which is mostly made up of people you don’t even know; Linkedin is great for keeping in touch with every single work colleague you have ever encountered in your life…etc.
The clear trend that I see here is that all of these services only providing you with superficial connections to people. And what they are missing is that deeper connection. The ability to really share your life and experiences is a powerful and meaningful way with someone very close to you, like say a life-long best friend living abroad, or perhaps your kid who is away at school or summer camp.
I want to be able to express the true me–not to everybody, but to certain close people. It’s time for social to find a soul.
