Life

7 Times It's Totally OK To Unfriend Someone

by Kat Kuehl

Apparently there really is a day for everything, because Nov. 17 is National Unfriend Day — a day that encourages people to sort through their Facebook friends, whittle things down a bit, and trim out those people who might be bringing you down. Of course, there are plenty of times when it's totally OK to unfriend someone, but today is the perfect opportunity to get your friend list under control.

National Unfriend Day was launched a few years ago as a joke by none other than Jimmy Kimmel, who shared his thoughts that Facebook was cheapening friendship. And, I really can't help but to agree with him. Some say that Facebook is a great way to keep in touch with friends. But — let's be honest — I have no trouble staying in touch with the people who are actually my friends. And, it usually doesn't happen via Facebook. Plus, Facebook may say that I have more than 600 friends. But, where are all of those people when I need a ride to the airport, or I need somebody to watch my dog? Not exactly great pals, right?

Which is exactly why Kimmel thought it was time for users to sort through their online friends, and get rid of some of those frivolous ones. Because, do you really need to know what your second grade pen pal is doing on vacation? No.

So, how do you know when you should click that magical unfriend button? Luckily, there are plenty of justifications. Read through these, and prepare to clean house on Facebook.

1. When someone continuously tells you your opinion is wrong

Whether they're constantly arguing with you in your comments, or posting endless political rants, nobody wants their newsfeed clogged with people who use Facebook as their personal soapbox.

2. When they majorly overshare

We all know those people who feel the need to post about every small thing they do throughout the day. I don't need to know that you're stuck in traffic, or that you're eating tacos for lunch. Come back when you have something important to share.

3. When it's someone you've only met once

If you're anything like me, you make it your policy not to accept a friend request from someone you've never met. But, that random girl you met one time your freshman year in college at a keg party in a sweaty basement? Well, why are you still "friends" on Facebook?

4. When they send you endless game requests

It's hard to believe that people still play games on Facebook. But, it turns out that they do. So, that person who constantly sends you requests to play Criminal Case? You might want to think twice about your "friendship."

5. When you feel like you're a part of their relationship

This person shares so many couple photos, song lyrics, and romantic posts that you feel like a third wheel in their relationship — even though you really don't care to know anything about their "one in a million love."

6. When they overwhelm you with event invitations

Sure, it's great that this person is involved and active in their community. But, that doesn't mean that they need to send you Facebook invitations to every single event they're a part of. Especially when you don't even live in the same state.

7. When they're passive aggressive

You post a photo with your friends, and they immediately comment and ask why they weren't invited. You share exciting news, and they instantly find some sort of flaw or shortcoming. You don't need to put up with their passive aggressiveness — so just hit "unfriend."

Images: Kleinefotografie/Flickr; Giphy (7)