Own Your Connections

I had a friend of a friend stay on my couch in college. He was very grateful and made lively conversation. I didn’t know this person previously, but after everything, he was great to have around. He left early the next morning, but before he did, he wrote a little thank you note and put in on the fridge. It wasn’t anything profound, just a quick thanks and a hope he could return the favor sometime. 

Instagram has opened the door to so many cool connections for so many people. I’ve chatted with heaps of people who have a similar work ethic and view on life as I do. In line with the name of social media, Instagram is most powerful when small communities and interest groups connect. The very fact that we can see other creators’ work, and connect with them instantly is incredible. It defines our era. 

However, the ease with which we can connect on social platforms is the same ease that these platforms can disappear, taking away our connections. Since there’s no friction, no tension, or tangible generosity connecting people, when the platform fizzles, the connections will too. 

On the other hand, I’ll never forget my couch friend from earlier. 

Online, there’s very little at stake. If things get weird, you don’t have to respond. But you can’t ghost someone who is staying on your couch. There’s a higher level of engagement that’s called for, which leads to a deeper level of connection. 

We need to find a way to own our connections. To transfer them from digital platforms into a real connection, with friction, generosity, and meaning. 

I’m not sure how to do this yet, but I’m excited to keep thinking through this.