Opinion By J1 Reporter Natalie Kemler

Newsworthy Notes with Natalie Kemler

I hear someone ask an urgent question to a fellow student. They aren’t asking about the test next class or the homework they forgot to do. Their question is,  “Why did you unfollow me?” I’m always appalled when I hear this question, whether it’s directed towards me or not. The first word I utter after I hear this question is always, “Yikes.”

The obsession people have with social media is terrifying. If you have an app that tells you who unfollowed you, please reconsider your priorities. The fact that people spend time and energy downloading an app that notifies them when someone unfollows them on Instagram or Twitter is absolutely frightening. When people compare likes and followers, a chill is sent down my spine. When people ask their friends to favorite their tweet or photo, I’m speechless.

I do think that social media is extremely useful, but it shouldn’t concern people as much as it does. Sure, it’s great for staying updated on current events, contacting friends, sharing pictures and videos, and knowing what your favorite celebrity is doing at the moment, but it’s also great for distracting you from more important things.

Next time you panic over an unfollow, please ask yourself if it really matters. (It doesn’t). A follower is not the same as a friend.

My advice is to focus your time and energy on something other than social media. Spend time with your friends and family and forget about your followers. Take a walk or study for the test you have tomorrow. Focus on what really matters and please don’t confront your unfollowers. If you’re truly obsessed, just delete it. You’ll be much happier and have time for things that actually matter.