If you see a pile-on, take a step back and ask yourself, “what value will I add by sharing my opinion?”

More often than not, someone has already expressed the same concern that you have.

Take it from someone who arguably spearheaded some pile-ons - overwhelmingly, this behavior is frowned upon (especially during the pandemic).

I’m thankful for all the people who either publicly or privately expressed their concerns.

I worry about how some of these exchanges will age. In the moment, it might feel good to attack someone. Bad moods, lack of & isolation can do that.

Keep in mind that journalists also monitor Twitter for leads. They are doing their jobs. Your tweets could show up in articles.

Anticipating the mean girls will make fun of my tweets behind blocks. People always DMs to express support.

Friends, I beg you, please don’t share their posts w me. I can’t see that stuff. It’s so damaging to my mental well being. You have no idea.

With that in mind, I do want to close out this thread with one last comment.

I’m called a hypocrite because my approach to social media has evolved.

We are all capable of change and personal growth.

I’m transparent about these topics because I want to lead by example with my social media use.

If you realize your past or current behavior is harmful, adopt better practices. That may mean finding new folks to engage.

If you’re abandoning toxic behavior and find it difficult, DM me. I can probably suggest some new folks to follow. If not, you can at least vent.

One mistake: I’ve been too vocal about my opinions.

I never expected it would lead to vicious rumors and personal attacks.

So don’t do that.

A mob can quickly form if your opinion misaligns with the group consensus.

People misinterpret your words as a personal attack. That’s why they berate and shame targets.

They mean well. Offline, these folks are incredible, but Twitter brings out the worst in us these days.