Social media should not replace real-world interactions and relationships, as human connection is a basic psychological need. While social media can sometimes facilitate communication better than face-to-face interactions, looking up from screens occasionally to engage with others can enhance both the online and real world experiences. Used smartly as an enhancement rather than a replacement, social media and the real world do not need to be at odds.

1. Social media doesn’t
REPLACE
the real world

2. It’s not a
BASIC NEED

3. http://immigrechoisi.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Maslow_2014_revised.jpg

4. and sometimes the
DOES IT
BETTER
real world

6. every now and then
LOOK UP

7. http://colorfully.eu/pay-attention-while-walking-your-facebook-status-update-can-wait-sign/#!prettyPhoto-5692/0/

8. CONVERSATION
engage in face-to-face

10. ALARMIST
you don’t have to be
like some

11. REMINDER
but a little
doesn’t hurt

12. Social media doesn’t
REPLACE
the real world*
* But it can enhance it if used smartly

13. @paulgordonbrown
www.paulgordonbrown.com
paulgordonbrown@gmail.com
Paul Gordon Brown