Social Validation
This morning I was looking over Twitter.com, something I rarely do since I almost exclusively tweet from Tweetdeck. While scanning the page, I noticed the “listed 12” link in the top right.
I know what a “list” is and I’ve seen this link before, however I never actually clicked through. I quickly noticed it was a running tally of all the lists I’ve been included in by other followers. That’s pretty cool!
As simple as that may be, it made me feel socially validated in some way. Now, I may not be included in as many lists as @ReecePacheco. After all, he has over 1000 followers on twitter. (Applause!) But, it still made me feel good.
I’m in a couple of “Lax” lists, a few “conversation” lists, and a “buddies” list. That last one’s my favorite - Thanks PTMaddiganEsq!
Facebook has now become a blur of individual people, the majority of which I share no relationship with whatsoever. Twitter has actually become a more engaging platform for me. I participate in more meaningful conversations there than I ever have on Facebook. And now, since I noticed I’ve been included in a few lists, I feel a slight obligation to the people who included me. It makes me want to participate more.
There’s something to be said about this. Simple social validation.
(Forgive typos, wrote this quick while running out the door..)
