I was going to write a blog post this evening about work but then I stumbled upon this video by Derek Sivers.
A real person, a lot like you.
It’s a gentle reminder to all of us that at the end of every computer – is a real person.
Something that people may like to remember when they’re leaving nasty comments on blogs or sending emails full of hate.
It’s dehumanizing to have thousands of people passing through our computer screens, so we do things we’d never do if they were sitting next to us. – Derek Sivers
It’s a sad fact that most of us (especially those who write or produce anything online) are used to the fact that there are people out there who will make nasty comments on almost a daily basis. One of my regular writing jobs brings out the same person time and time again. He clearly feels it worth his while reading what’s been published but still takes time out of (what I can only surmise as being very empty) day to leave a comment reminding me how rubbish I am (in his opinion, of course).
Although, this video isn’t really about those nasty little trolls, it is a good reminder in these days of virtual communication it’s more important that ever to start being considerate and to treat people the way we expect to be treated.
And be aware, people will ALWAYS see the negative comments. It could be a stream of 100,0000 messages but that one nasty comment will always stand out.
Think before you send.
Enjoy the video!