I had a four-day break from all social-media channels over Christmas and it was beautiful. I've taken about a fortnight off from my blog which was unplanned but needed. I found myself in a low place just before and I needed to step back, to hide myself, my family, my life away from the world in the little bubble that is the 'Teacup Family home' and take stock. Of everything.
I'm excited for 2014, it'll bring changes; some good, some not-so-much but all needed.
I've been thinking recently that maybe the Internet isn't such a great thing...that perhaps the over-sharing element that comes with social media is ruining our fun at Christmas? People share too much I think. Is it not considered bragging to Instagram all your presents? Would you invite your friends round to gaze upon your festive bounty (neatly arranged and in great, natural light)?
In a time where people are struggling to feed their families, should we really be telling the world what we were lucky enough to receive? Is it safe to Instagram that new Mulberry handbag then tweet you're off to the gym for a post-Christmas work out?
Is gifting fair? Are there rules? I once won a prize on Twitter and gave it as a present. They saw and were offended that I hadn't gone out and purchased something myself. Truth is, I don't give things that aren't the quality that I would buy for myself unless the recipient specifically asks for it. I spend the same on my sister as I do my brother-in-law, my best friend, my parents etc and the only people who get preferential treatment are my children and my husband.
Is online shopping really the way forward? I bought a friend something this year and when it arrived, was disappointed it wasn't what I thought. Had I gone to a shop to buy it I would've known that.
And the sales, oh the sales. Can we say relentless?! I was getting emails on sales starting the 23rd! Half the things I'd bought were already half-price! On Internet, you need a slap sometimes!!
The Internet ruins Christmas. There. I said it.
Clare
Labels: Christmas, Internet, life, online, rant, social media