Imagine a world where we step back from the chaos of endless scrolling and algorithm-driven feeds, returning to a time when human connection was at the forefront of how we communicated and built relationships. Personally, I’d be thrilled if all social media platforms were shut down. Instead, we could reconnect through face-to-face conversations, thoughtful blog posts where engagement comes naturally, meaningful emails, text messages, and even the timeless phone call (the majority of people I try to call these days send it right to voice-mai that is full and won’t even allow messages). These tools, though simpler, foster genuine interaction and allow us to be intentional about how we share our personal stories and build our brands.
This approach emphasizes Return on Relationship (ROR)—a concept that prioritizes authentic connections over surface-level engagement. It’s about relationships that mean more. Imagine the depth of interactions when we focus on quality over quantity—when our attention isn’t split between fleeting likes and viral trends.
TikTok might bring quick laughs, but what about long-lasting impact? Our society, and especially our children, would be so much better off without the overstimulation, comparison, and negativity that social media often amplifies and leverages for their own profitability and control. Without these platforms, the art of connection becomes more deliberate, almost a “talent” in itself. It’s something we’d have to nurture, refine, and focus on—because engaging meaningfully requires attention, effort, and care.
Sure, the idea of social media was incredible—a revolutionary way to bridge distances, connect people, share ideas, and give anyone and everyone a voice. But the execution and evolution? Catastrophic. Algorithms prioritize outrage, clicks, and consumption over genuine connection. What began as a tool for building bridges, friendships, and personal influence has, in many ways, become a machine that isolates, distracts, and harms.
So, let’s consider a world with NO LET UP (#NoLetUp) on fostering real relationships—one where we reclaim the time and space to connect in ways that build trust, inspire collaboration, and create a foundation for something deeper than likes or shares. That’s the future we should aim for… and it seems to me that will require not only a desire, but dedication to democratic oversight and regulation.
RETURN ON RELATIONSHIP… #YEAHABSOLUTELY!