You’re wrong if you see a trade-off between the use of social media and real-life interactions.

I have a friend or two who left social media because apparently, they care more about real friendships and relationships, not digital ones.

My experience is the opposite. I too occasionally criticize Facebook (oh, sorry, Meta), especially Zuckerberg’s obsession with the metaverse, but I also have a profound appreciation of Meta’s products, all of them — Facebook, Instagram, and Whatsapp. Thanks to Facebook, I’ve been able to keep in touch with my mates from school and college and my ex-colleagues. My network is very international and there’s no way I could’ve stayed connected with my friends without the help of social media. Moreover, some of my interactions on social media directly impacted my life, both on the personal and professional fronts. For example, my move to America a decade ago started with a Facebook message to my friend who was already in America. He wasn’t even a close friend but he helped me network for a job.

On Instagram, I love following my favorite athletes, especially runners.

Whatsapp helps me stay in touch with my close relatives in different countries.

A post on LinkedIn helped me get consulting work that was nothing short of a lifeline during difficult times.

Last night yet again I got to appreciate the virtuous power of social media.