Social Media Slacktivism is So 2016

We all have that one friend on Facebook. The passionate one who publishes paragraph-long posts about a hot topic in the news. They’re usually filled with a range of opinions, lofty ideas, great ambitions, and good intentions. Over the past several months, my social media feeds have been filled with political pontifications. Inspired by some posts and frustrated by others, I felt compelled to share my own voice and add to the conversation. After drafting my soliloquy, I paused. Is there anything I can actually do to fight for the causes that matter to me?

True, these posts often elicit a great deal of attention and engagement. A few buzzwords get people going. After all, our friends make us feel validated and good. Others tend to challenge or question. People comment, like, and share. There is activity. Conversation. We feel active and part of something greater.

2016 coined the term “slacktivists” to describe these offenders. Slacktivists put time and energy into talking about how deeply they care for a cause but are not actually taking action to make an impact. Indeed, bringing awareness to causes that matter is an important aspect of activism. Social media allows us to support and identify with causes we believe in. But is anyone actually doing anything?

Slacktivism takes on several forms. Social media trends have ranged from people dumping buckets of ice on their heads (ALS), to omnipresent red equal signs (Marriage Equality). Facebook has even introduced the option to set temporary profile pictures to allow users to support a relevant cause. As we see more and more people talking a big talk, it makes you wonder––do they also walk a big walk?

Sure, there are worse things in life than talking a big talk. In a world of uncertainty and injustice, we could use a little more “feel good” in our lives. But what if we made room for more “do good” too?

With the start of a new year, many people made resolutions of self-improvement — working out, eating healthy, or sleeping more are among the most common. Let’s all leave behind the slacking and commit to taking action on causes that matter. Whether you are passionate about animal rights, criminal justice, education, health, food, human rights, or any number of empowering efforts, put your money where your mouth is and start to do.

It’s easier said than done. Committing to action requires intention. Here are a few tips on how to ditch the slack and hop on the social change bandwagon.

Activism 101:

1. Know that anything you do, no matter how small, is a step in the right direction.

You’re not going to solve all the world’s problems, but you will be making meaningful contributions that matter. If everyone did one small thing per day for a cause that motivated them, imagine the change we could achieve.

2. Put your money where your hashtag is. It’s that easy.

You can #donate with Goodworld on Facebook andTwitter. If Facebook missives are still your thing, encourage your friends to #donate by tagging them in your #donate comment on your favorite cause’s Facebook post. By creating a platform of social giving, you will be promoting activism among your network.

3. It doesn’t even have to be money. Give your time. Volunteer.

Participate in a food drive. Help fundraise among your friends and other networks. Activism is accessible to everyone.

4. Do it together. Onboard your friends. Make it a communal effort.

Just because it’s tough, doesn’t mean it isn’t worth it. There are some causes that seem unconquerable. Accept that taking a few steps in the right direction is enough. If everyone commits to doing just a little bit more, much can be accomplished.

Are you in? Take a shot at activism and see how it feels. Favorite and share this to encourage action from your friends. Let us know how you’re going from slacktivist to activist.

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