When Old Friends Unfollow Us: Should We Care and Why?

It's a common experience that leaves us questioning our worth in the digital age. Several times, I have found myself in the situation where old friends from three years ago unfollow me on social media. The question then arises: should we care when this happens? This phenomenon is as common as it is perplexing, especially in a world where social media is so ubiquitous.

The Role of Social Media in Friendship

Social media platforms have transformed how we interact with our friends. While these platforms can be beneficial, they can also create a sense of pressure to maintain a certain number of followers and friends. It's a bizarre popularity contest where our perceived value is tied to the number of connections we have. But why should we care? Social media is just that—an extension of our lives, not the entirety of it. It's important to remember that real, in-person friendships are much more valuable than virtual ones.

The Importance of Reality Over Social Media

Why should our old friends care about us anymore just because we unfollowed each other? The question of what a "friend" means in the digital age is often questioned. When did you last see these friends in person, or even talk to them? It's easy to forget that social media friends are often idle acquaintances rather than true friends. Life moves on, and people change. It's a normal part of life, and it's no surprise that old friends might not be as interested in our lives as they once were.

Moving Forward and Letting Go

Friendships can change over time. Circumstances change, interests change, and people change. While it's natural to feel hurt, it's important to recognize that it's not a reflection of your worth. It's a normal part of life. If a friend is unfollowing you, the best option is to wish them well and move on. There are undoubtedly others who will become your friends, or even followers, in the future. In this particular case, it sounds like you were dealing with online friends/followers rather than genuine, in-person friends.

Why Duration Isn't Everything

Three years might feel like a long time in terms of social media interactions, but it's relatively short in the grand scheme of friendships. Even those who were once regular in-person friends can gradually become more casual acquaintances over time. This is a natural part of life and relationships. By the time you reach your seventh decade, you'll likely have friends who have been your companions for decades, but this doesn't mean that old connections can't weaken or change over time. It's a natural progression of life, and it's important to accept it.

Ultimately, social media can be a double-edged sword. It can connect us with people we care about, but it can also create a false sense of connection. It's important to remember that real life and real relationships are much more valuable and meaningful than virtual connections. Don't let social media dictate how you feel about yourself or your friendships.