How to Handle Cringe Old Social Media Posts: Deleting, Archiving & Expert Advice
The internet preserves a vast record of our evolving selves. For many, particularly those from Gen Z and Millennial generations, this digital archive includes past interests, connections, and viewpoints – often leading to feelings of embarrassment when revisiting older posts.
Navigating Online Regret
When confronted with a cringeworthy post from the past, the immediate impulse may be to delete it. However, journalist and Wall Street Journal contributor Alexandra Samuel suggests a more considered approach. Samuel advises viewing deletions as a form of “curation,” according to a conversation with Vox.
Samuel cautions that deleting content doesn’t guarantee its removal from the internet, citing the Internet Archive as a repository of past online snapshots. She recommends backing up posts before deleting them.
The Value of a Digital Footprint
Rather than erasing the past, Samuel argues there’s value in preserving it. Deleting a post that demonstrates a past error, especially if accompanied by evidence of learning and growth in the comments, removes that context. Archiving the post, including screenshots and the comment thread, provides a record of that evolution.
The desire to avoid regret online is understandable, but Samuel suggests that striving for a completely flawless social media presence may be unrealistic and ultimately unfulfilling. She even suggests that, for those not professionally obligated to maintain an online presence, abstaining from social media altogether is a viable option.
When regret does arise, Samuel recommends distancing oneself from the situation, seeking perspective from trusted sources, and allowing time to pass before responding. Acknowledging wrongdoing is acceptable, and even beneficial, demonstrating a willingness to learn and adapt.
Frequently Asked Questions
What initially sparked your interest in online regret and shame?
Alexandra Samuel’s attention was first drawn to the issue in June 2011, following a riot in Vancouver after the city lost the Stanley Cup. The event was documented in real-time on social media, raising concerns about citizen surveillance.
Why might people feel a sense of moral superiority when shaming others online?
According to Samuel, shaming others online can provide a temporary feeling of moral righteousness, offering a sense of virtue in a complex world where it can be difficult to consistently act in a perfectly ethical manner.
What is the potential downside of deleting old social media posts?
Deleting old posts without archiving them can remove evidence of personal growth and learning. If the post resurfaces later, the context of the original conversation and any subsequent acknowledgment of error will be lost.
As social media continues to evolve, how do you think individuals will balance the desire for a curated online presence with the inevitability of past digital footprints?