Buzz
The like button has fundamentally altered the internet for the worse. Platforms for social interaction and comment areas have conditioned us to express our negative emotions through detailed text, while our positive sentiments are reduced to mere likes. This results in negativity being prominently displayed in comments and replies, while positivity is minimized to a numerical value. Endlessly scrolling through such content, or experiencing it on your own posts, can be incredibly draining. The fix, however, is straightforward.
Designer Frank Chimero attributes this issue to the absence of a dislike button on social media. While a dislike button could create numerous problems, as seen on Reddit where “downvotes” obscure meaningful contributions, the current system only allows users to like or elaborate on their disapproval.
As I’ve mentioned in previous writings, the internet would benefit from a dislike button that has no real impact. However, as Chimero highlights, there’s a more immediate and personal approach you can take:
Whenever you click 'like,' accompany it with an uplifting comment
It seems obvious now, doesn’t it? Many people already practice this. You might, like me, roll your eyes at their seemingly trivial remarks. You might even wish your older relatives would stop commenting 'OMG cute!' on your Instagram posts and simply hit the heart button. But those individuals are actually doing it correctly! They appear to genuinely enjoy the internet because they focus on spreading positivity.
You can leave meaningful, positive comments without resorting to triviality. Reflect on what you appreciated about the post and articulate it. Ask your friend where they purchased that stylish hat or what they’re enjoying on their vacation. Share how much their small life observation resonates with you. Alternatively, craft a thoughtful message that channels your full intellect into expressing joy and gratitude.
It significantly boosts the original poster’s mood
Even if you’re like me—a cynic who gets irritated by superficial replies from loved ones—you’d still prefer those over outright negative responses. When you share something meaningful or humorous, you want to see others genuinely enjoying it. A mere number next to a heart icon doesn’t quite capture that feeling. It’s akin to playing Super Mario solely for the points.
Receiving a compliment brings joy, leaves a lasting impression, and might even be shared with a friend. Whether someone says something kind or harsh, it can stick with you for years. However, no one cherishes the memory of a simple like.
The next time you click 'like,' consider how you’d respond in person and translate that into written words. Offer genuine thoughts and emotions for them to reflect on. Provide compliments, empathy, or agreement in a way that will leave a lasting impact.
It improves your own mood
The more effort you put into leaving positive comments, the less room there is for negativity.
You initiate a meaningful dialogue
“A like has no direction,” Chimero explains, “but a compliment can travel far.” It has the power to spark a genuine dialogue, creating a real exchange that pulls you out of the endless cycle of searching and consuming.
You’re transforming a simple or meaningful moment into something larger, giving it more room in your thoughts and extending its impact into new experiences. It’s a small, everyday decision that enhances life.
