I heard a man who studies human behavior make an interesting point. 

He said that it used to be that people used the internet and social media to be the made-up versions of themselves, and their real versions were what you saw if you ever dealt with them in person.  

But, he continued, things have changed. 

Now, maybe we get the real version of people through their online activity — and the faking-it version when you meet them in person. 

I think he’s onto something. 

To me, it seems that posting something online is like talking to someone from behind bulletproof glass. 

They’re right there, mere feet away from you, but you feel like they could never get to you. 

This is why people say crazy things online that they would never say in person. 

Have you ever had someone pass you really aggressive on the road? Maybe they were tailgating you, or flipped you off with a one-finger salute in the process. 

You’re not that far away from them, but the “protective bubble” effect of being in a car makes people feel more courageous. Has anyone ever cussed you out when passing you on the sidewalk? 

The internet is the same way. The “protective bubble” of talking though captions, anonymous comments and @replies makes people more courageous, more bold, more aggressive. More open. More willing to speak on things. 

More themselves. 

I used to think that the internet and “real life” were two different things. It used to be this way! 

Not anymore. 

The next time you see someone who appears to be radically different online from what you know about them offline, maybe the social media profile is the real thing. 

To better your people-reading skills, take the People Skills 10 Module Course so you can move more comfortably amongst people in any setting — which means fewer awkward exchanges and uncomfortable moments for you. 

Learn all about the People Skills Course here: http://WorkOnMyGame.com/People


Learn All About The People Skills Course Here