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What do the 7 deadly sins have to do with social media? PLENTY! The difference is you commit these sins in social media you risk going to reputation purgatory…in real life, you go to, well…let’s not talk about religious beliefs here.
Wrath
Unless you are using video, there aren’t too many ways (maybe using all CAPS) to show that you’re angry. Perhaps your tone might come through, but really we’re looking at text only. The one way to show anger for sure is to use language that is foul or insulting. Never do it…rise above.
Greed
We usually think of greed having to do with wanting more ‘stuff’; the physical things that we can touch or hold. Not so easy in the social space. Followers, likes, subscribers might fit…in fact being greedy and asking for more of those works, but it does look kind of well, desperate. (OK, on the verge of a big number or milestone, you’ll be forgiven, but not too much.) The real greed comes from trying to look, seem or sound to great. Leave it to others to give you the status, wealth, being. Don’t tell people how great you are…if you are, they’ll know
Sloth
This can take many forms in social media. Carelessness, lack of use, ignorance.
Any or all are certainly ignoring what you have been given. You have a great opportunity to use this tool. Use it well. Use it with pure intent and always be careful to be professional.
Pride
Don’t get too big for yourself. Be proud of your accomplishment but with a sense of humility. Remember, you’re using social media…not running into a burning building or staring down the wrong end of a weapon. You’re using social media. The men and women you are representing are the workers. You’re using a tool behind the scenes to make them (and your Service) look as best you can. Do so with pride but don’t let it go to your head.
Lust
We just keep this one to exactly what you’re thinking. Feelings of the flesh…keep them to yourself at all times! Don’t share racy photos or videos…especially if you’re a star in them. Think a person on-line is attractive and worth a second glance? Good, but keep it to that…don’t say it, don’t show it. Think it’s ok in a private or direct message? Don’t even think about it!
Envy
Don’t look at someone else’s account or presence and wish for what they have. Different communities, different situations. Specific agendas, needs of the community, time to invest can all have a bearing on one account to another…not to mention pure time on-line. Just try to keep up with what you are doing and everything else will work out all on its own.
Gluttony
There are two thousand seven hundred and forty-five different social media platforms. (No I can’t verify that…just thought I’d say it.) Don’t try to do them all. Pick a few and concentrate on doing the best you can there. Even if you don’t want to name platforms try thinking about what they do. Video, micro-blogging, blogging, picture, combination. Consider what each does and use them specifically for their purpose. Go where you get the most bang for your buck.
Agree!