does facebook help your real life relationships?

[lucindapie]

just wondering... there's a few people I've met a couple times in RL and befriended on facebook. Sometimes I see their stuff on the news feed, and wonder if I should like/comment. I've always been a bit shy about using facebook. I feel weird about writing something that 200 people can instantly see. But I'm thinking about some mums that I like and would like to know better. Is facebook a good way this can happen? Would love to hear your experiences.

I don't know why you'd feel weird. It's all very public Facebook and I'm pretty sure people put up their (usually inane) messages with the intention of getting responses. We all need friends. What have you got to lose?

I think it is a good way of making links, I've got friendly with a few school mums this way, it has also been great for maintaining a good relationship with my stepchildren through their teenage years

I find that facebook has helped my relationships a lot. I've become closer to people who were only acquaintances just through inane chats on FB. It's also good for making links you didn't realise were there. There's a guy where I work who I only ever said hello to, but he's a 'friend of a friend' on facebook, and now we have quite a laugh together.

I also find that chatting to colleagues on FB helps with the 'Sunday night feeling' as you're already in touch with them all. I have anxiety issues around being 'left out' and casual chat on FB really helps.

Go for it OP, you may make some excellent friendships.

thanks everyone for sharing. I will try it! There are a few people I really like, we just don't meet up that much due to time and distance. Facebook could be a way to build these relationships I hope!

Good luck Lucinda. I know what it's like to feel awkward around people. Hope you make some lovely new friendships.