Understanding the Roots of Online Negativity

Why do individuals feel compelled to post negative comments? In my view, the trend escalated during the pandemic. Prior to 2020, social media was largely a lighthearted space filled with amusing cat videos and harmless banter. However, as lockdowns ensued, the tone shifted dramatically, morphing into intense debates about public health, politics, and religion.

Suddenly, individuals began to assert their beliefs with vehement declarations that others were simply incorrect. This shift often led to a barrage of hateful comments aimed at those who held opposing views. I frequently ponder why negativity trumps positivity in online discourse.

Research from the National Institute of Science in 2005 revealed that approximately 85% of the 80,000 daily thoughts we experience tend to be negative. While comedies aim to amuse, journalism has increasingly become a catalyst for outrage, with sensational headlines designed to provoke anger.

In the past, expressing frustration required more effort; reactions often faded within minutes as we shared our thoughts in person. Today, however, a click can unleash a torrent of negativity that quickly spreads through social media algorithms, amplifying the reach and impact of our emotional outbursts.

Lincoln's Timeless Wisdom for Social Media

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, embodies an exemplary approach to handling emotions in a way that enhances rather than detracts from one's character. Although social media didn't exist during his presidency (1861-1865), the challenge of managing negative emotions is as old as humanity itself.

Lincoln faced his own frustrations, yet he developed a unique method for processing these feelings without compromising his dignity. An illustrative case is Lincoln's correspondence with General Meade during the Civil War.

Following a pivotal battle at Gettysburg in 1863, Meade failed to act decisively against the retreating Confederate Army. Historians suggest that a decisive attack could have shortened the war by two years. Lincoln, understandably upset, initially composed a scathing letter to Meade, blaming him for his inaction. However, he ultimately chose not to send it, recognizing the potential damage it could inflict on morale and leadership.

Lessons from Lincoln's "Unsent Letter" Approach

In Lincoln's time, communication was far more deliberate. Telegrams were concise, letters required significant effort, and phone calls were rarely spontaneous. This slower pace allowed for reflection after emotional events, leading to more thoughtful responses.

In contrast, the immediacy of modern communication can lead us to impulsively share our feelings—whether positive or negative—without sufficient reflection. Influencers often encourage this rapid sharing, making it easy for everyone to broadcast emotional reactions.

Lincoln's practice of writing unsent letters provides a valuable lesson: take the time to process emotions privately before responding publicly. Journaling can help clarify thoughts and lead to deeper insights rather than knee-jerk reactions.

When faced with strong emotions, consider writing down your feelings before discussing them with others. Allow time for reflection; often, what feels urgent in the moment loses its significance over a few days. If criticism is necessary, approach the person directly and privately to foster a constructive conversation.

A wise martial arts instructor once advised waiting ten days before expressing frustration. What seems pressing initially may become trivial, and important matters can still be addressed thoughtfully even after some time has passed.

As you navigate your online interactions, remember this:

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