(ADDICTED!) To Social Media?

My world’s been a BIT topsy turvy lately, and I’ve had cause to think about “issues” and “stuff” that had previously — thankfully — not been a part of my “thought repertoire.”

All of my “mess” led me to this blog post, about ADDICTION…. to social media. I’ve heard facebook referred to as “face-crack” and other jokes regarding how “addictive” these social media outlets are…. and I see countless hours (and dollars) spent on this “business-owner addiction of choice.”

But here’s the deal.  The addiction isn’t to social media. Steve Chandler says it best,

The real addiction is not to social media or the Internet, or to tweets and texts and emails. The real addiction is to getting other people to LIKE me, and to approve of me.

Now, I’m a fan of social media — when it’s used appropriately and held accountable for producing a specific, measurable result in your business.  But addiction??? Specifically a social addiction, where I — as a grown a$$ woman — am reduced to counting “likes” and clamoring for approval?  Um… not so much.  No time.  And even less than zero interest.  Yuck.

So, what’s the solution?   Where’s the profitable middle ground here?  

Purpose.

A life / business / day led by purpose is the OPPOSITE of one driven by addiction — of any kind.  So, what is your PURPOSE on social media?

Be honest with yourself.  Is it emotional and ego-driven?  Do you go to facebook or twitter as some sort of boost or distraction?  If so, you’re moving AWAY from purpose and TOWARD a social media “addiction.” But, is your purpose MEASURABLE, WELL DEFINED, and UNEMOTIONAL?  Now, you’re doing social media “on purpose.”

What are your thoughts on this?  Read below. I’m gonna ask a few social media gurus to comment here — to share their thoughts on THESE TWO QUESTIONS:

1) What is the BEST thing social media can do for your business?  and

2) Where do most business owners go off course when it comes to social media?

I’d love to hear your thoughts as well! =)