Social Media: It Can Help More Than Just Your Ego

I'll be the first to admit, I'm a bit of a social media junky. I'm on Facebook, Twitter, Linked In, etc, and with more than one profile on some of them. The Facebook keeps me in touch with family and friends back East. Twitter and my Fan Page on Facebook help promote my business. I haven't quite figured out what Linked In is for, but I've got quite a few "recommendations" so I guess that's cool. Those certainly make me feel good about myself and I like having a way to share my status with the world.

Some of the men in my real life social circle have mocked my frequent use of such "ego boosting nonsense."  They see it as a way to brag or complain and spy on the lives of people who I pretend are my friends, but really if I saw them on the street I may not say hi. I'm not sure I'd agree with all that but from time to time I have secretly peeked at the Facebook page of an ex or two.

Seriously though, they can make fun of me all they want because, for me, social media is here to stay. I've found it is such a great way to stay connected and network that I refuse to let my profiles go.

The most positive connection I've gained, believe it or not, was actually from Twitter. While searching for local tweets to follow, I came upon the Volunteer Center of the East Bay, located here in Walnut Creek.

They cordially thanked me for my "follow" and I replied (in 140 letters or less) that if they ever hear of any acupuncture volunteer opportunities that I would be interested in donating my time.  They were quick to answer and I was soon put in contact with the volunteer rep at AIDS Project of the East Bay (APEB).

After a few emails and meetings, myself and one other acupuncturist were able to give an educational presentation to their staff and early this summer we'll be starting a program offering acupuncture for free to their clients. It's very exciting and pretty cool to think that because of social media several less fortunate folks in need will be receiving a really beneficial service for free!

How's that for an ego boost, but what's wrong with feeling good about helping others? So next time someone calls you a Facebook fanatic, just remember how you may have made someone's day with your last message or shared some valuable information that changed someone's life.

Happy Tweeting!