Communication Error

Have you ever had one of those weeks where it seems people (on social networking sites) are constantly taking what you say wrong? Or perhaps they’re just misunderstanding what you’re saying?  Well, I had one of those weeks last week. Looking back I can see where maybe what I wrote could have been misconstrued. Or perhaps I was misinterpreting their response to what I said? Either way, the problem with purely written communication is that if you aren’t precise in what you say, there is always room for interpretation and conversely, misunderstanding. And really – let’s be honest – in some instances being very precise isn’t allowed in posts that limit word count.

This is why I have decided to follow some general rules (if I can control myself):

1. Use emoticons liberally. Also, LOL is a good addition to let people know you’re not taking yourself too seriously or you’re kidding, or enjoying the conversation, or you think something is funny.
2. If you’re kidding – say so. There’s always that one guy who is going to think you’re serious and get all asshurt.
3. If you have nothing nice to say – say nothing.
4. Don’t allow yourself to be baited into controversial discussions. (I’m really bad about this.)
5. Use ::action:: signifiers as they also help to convey emotion.
6. Repeat yourself as necessary to make sure people understand what you actually said.  Sometimes people stop reading after the first sentence if that first sentence sparks an emotional response. 
7. Stop talking magick and politics on FB. Seriously, just stop. (That last bit to myself).

I’ll let you know if any of this helps. 🙂  Probably not. I’m not sure I can do number 7. ::cringe::