My social media fast
It finally happened. After 2 years of seamlessly connecting and conversing with people through Facebook and Twitter while travelling across the world, I finally hit a wall — the Great Firewall of China.
“Twitter is blocked in China.”
This news left me disconcerted and disorientated. I quickly checked my iPhone Twitter and Facebook apps, and realised with dismay that they weren’t uploading. I then launched into a focused effort to get these apps up and running on my BlackBerry, and didn’t stop until I saw my test Tweet uploaded. I was a woman on a mission. And then I found myself shift from being disconcerted to disturbed.
How, when, why had social media become such an integral part of me? The obvious answer was that it is vital in this day and age to remain socially connected. Facebook and Twitter have become my primary sources of news and updates — from the major to the mundane — and also my primary link to a large number of peers, partners and pals. And don’t forget the plethora of inspirational quotes from Oprah to @grandmagoddess!
The ultimate irony was that after establishing my social media links, I managed to send only 3 Tweets and upload only 2 photos to Facebook during the 6 days that I was in China. I didn’t even get to check my Wall or the news feed at all!
After all the trouble it took to stay connected, I ended up not being that digitally connected after all. Not to say I was unconnected those 6 days. If at all, I was super-connected throughout, except I was doing it the good old-fashioned way.
I was in Dalian, China for the World Economic Forum’s Summer Davos, and got thoroughly immersed in conversing with amazing leaders and influencers!
With QI's visionary founder, Dato' Vijay, at the WEF's Summer Davos, where I made some incredible connections the old-fashioned way.
Then I spent a few magical days appreciating the beauty, experiencing the culture and relishing the gastronomical delights of Shanghai with my dearest friends.
A unique spin -- make the bar a part of the bartender!
Shanghai's French Concession provided the perfect backdrop for a would-be bride's engagement shoots.
I had gone on a social media fast to feast on every morsel that being with delightful people brings. And just like the rejuvenation that a detox fast brings to our bodies, I left China feeling socially, emotionally and mentally rejuvenated.
I’m grateful to the Great Firewall of China for having reminded me that high-tech will never trump high-touch. Also that the “social” is more important than the “media”. It’s what makes social media work!
Anyone else up for a social media detox fast?
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