One of the first things you learn, especially if you have siblings, is that you need to share. Did my brother get the first juicy bite of the hamburger I so looked forward to eating? Hell, no! It was only after I devoured most of it and ate every last french fry on the plate, that I offered him a bite. Forget it! he would say. It’s cold. Yeah, I know and I’d laugh a little every time.
When it comes to sharing now, I willingly and gladly share. It could be a new store or exercise studio I tried or some extra cookies or banana bread. I will gather info on said store or activity to pass along or spend an hour mixing up a treat. Yes, I’ve been known to over share a story or experience as well, maybe inappropriately at times (and hope those who were present got at least a little chuckle out of it).
What do people share today and why do they share it? Almost anything can be shared instantly including feelings and experiences. I’ve never been a diary person, but then something happens and I think, geez, I should write that down! I want to freeze time, capturing that moment so I can at some point experience that feeling or situation again. My mother likes to just make something up if she can’t remember a detail and then it simply becomes part of the story, true or not. My dad, a die-hard Cub fan, will provide an inning by inning recap of the game stopping to correct himself if he doesn’t accurately capture it. I love that. These are just a few options to consider.
Because of social media, sharing has become quite easy. Feeling great? Awesome! Update your status on Facebook to say so. Going to a hip new restaurant in our fair city? Post a check-in on Foursquare or Facebook and maybe use Instagram to capture that moment when you cross the threshold and get a waft of the flavors you’re about to enjoy. Never in my wildest dreams could I have thought reading the words “happy birthday!” on a screen from various friends and family could trump any birthday party even if it had pony rides.
These moments, these experiences are important. They’re not only important to you, but companies large and small. Why? Well, for you, it’s part of your life that seemingly goes by too quickly. For companies, it tells them so much more about you and what you like to do. These are the nuggets of information that enable them to identify their customer and then figure out not just A way, but the BEST way to talk to them. The dissection of these moments and experiences prompt lengthy discussions, months of meetings and maybe, just maybe, a commercial or pretty picture you remember enough to go get that product or service. This procedure has lead many a corporation to teeter on the edge of bankruptcy.
No, I’m not suggesting you give the key to your personal diary to the P & G’s of the world so they can sell you a product that magically lessens the blow of that break up via text. However, for the most part, most of us kind of already did and continue to do so. Don’t be nervous. You’ll be better for it. Why? Because it would be amazing to one day, never see or hear another ad for something I don’t need, want or use and only those for things that matter to me. I will be yours forever! While a particular company gets my loyalty, they also won’t go broke in the process.
I highly encourage sharing. I, of course, have to remind my two children it’s important to share. What lies ahead for them are many moments when they get to decide what they should and should not share in a public or private way. I only hope they make good decisions as I have … for the most part.
Did I ever tell you about the night I met Charles Barkley? Well, while on a business trip to Cleveland, my good friend, Erica and I decided to go for a drink. About 10 vodkas later, a “What’s up, baby?” greeting from Sir Charles and … wait! I have a picture!