Social media and online culture are often entwined with daily lives. If they aren’t creating positive places for you, there are options. “Facebook: One Approach” is an essay by Culture On The Line’s creator, Andrew T. Smith.

"Before you ask for readers, write the article you wish you could read. Before you ask for the sale, create the product you wish you had… Always give value before you ask for value." — James Clear

There's no right or wrong "way" to do Facebook or social media in general — but I'll go out on a limb and note that if it's not something positive for you, perhaps your approach isn't working.

We aren't obligated to "follow" anyone or allow any specific person to follow us. It's ok to unfollow, unfriend, or even block someone as necessary, even real-world friends and family. And we're not obligated to read anyone's words. It's not an all-or-nothing scenario.

I'll share what works for me: it mirrors Clear's words above. Check them out again.

For me, Facebook works best when I'm a creator, not a consumer. I add what I want to read. I'm not naive or arrogant enough to believe that my posts have more value, but they reflect the value I want to find — for me. (And it's ok, and expected that it wouldn't be everyone's cup of tea.)

Not liking what you read? Then create and add what you think should be there. James Clear wasn't writing about social media or Facebook but rather a general philosophy that adds rather than disappoints.

Disappointed with Facebook or anything you're consuming? Create.

(Anywhere.)

All works copyright Kristin Kest and/or Andrew Smith.