To fill time when on holiday, I read. Like most people, books have become a stalwart in the suitcase before we jet off to some big destination. Currently, I'm dipping in and out of a book called 'Twitchhiker', by Paul Smith. It's the story of how Paul travelled the globe, purely from the generosity of his Twitter followers.
As most of you know, I'm a big fan of Twitter. I've been addicted since January 2009, six months before the Big Boom - and oh how it's changed. Growth has been undertaken by Twitter, whilst leaving the core ethos of the social networking site intact. It is still a place to meet new people, follow those people who make you smile and laugh, and a tool used by many to revolutionise the world as we know it.
Everyone has a Twitter story, though. A virtual life never before seen on such a global scale. The Revolution really had taken hold, and changed the way we interact with each other.
I mean, how many friends have you made on Twitter? Met anyone through it? Taken part in a big event from just one 140 character Tweet? Yep, I have.
Over the last two and a half years, I've met many a face who has made me laugh, get angry, feel sorry for, or weep at.
I met Ewan (@Ewbz), Isobel's dad, via Twitter. A very modern twist on a relationship. We Tweet and share stories and links all the time. I was asked once if Ewan and I actually ever speak, or just Tweet each other...
Another friend I've got to know even better is Marty (@nymrtz). I've never actually net Marty, but have known him since 2006. We met via a football forum, and since then we've stayed in touch. Whether it be a message on Facebook, a quick chat via MSN, or now several Tweets a week, I feel that I know him as if I always have.
There's always the lucky follow, too. As a massive Man United fan, following United-related accounts seemed logical. Stumbling across a retweet from one of these accounts led me to Stretty News (@StrettyNews). As many of you now know, I write pieces for the website, and have met a lot of really great people because of it. Another strike of luck for Adam. 1-0.
How about those people you've watched succeed? I've followed Poppy Dinsey (@PoppyD) for a VERY long time now, and watched What I Wore Today (@WIWT) go from strength to strength over the last 18 months. A new site about to launch, and her face in every newspaper - a job well done.
Then there was Mr Chris Floyd (@chrisfloyduk). A brilliant photographer, Chris had the idea to take 140 photos of his Twitter followers, which Isobel and I were very lucky to be a part of. Admittedly, we were probably the most uptight, annoying people Chris had to work with for the project, but in hindsight, it was a great opportunity. Plus Chris is one of the nicest blokes you could ever meet.
My best Twitter story has to be that of Lewis Wiltshire (@LewisWiltshire). A very early follow, as Lewis was the Editor of the BBC Sport website. A few early Tweets, and soon he became almost like a mentor, helping me choose different paths for different outcomes. Certainly someone I'll be keeping in touch with.
Of course, there are countless more people, tales and stories that I could spend all day chatting about. With over 300m Twitter users, there must be an infinite amount of links made and friendships created through a small set of characters.
Many question Twitter's purpose. Some see it as a way to interact with like-minded people. Others view it as a complete waste of time. Personally, I see it as a tool that can help change your life.
Okay, that sounds horrifically cheesy, but think about it - all it takes is 140 characters to make a new friend, get offered a job, or make a career for yourself. I've seen all three happen, so it's gotta be possible!
Agree with me? Fancy making a new friend?! Follow me on Twitter - I'm @Adam9309!
Taken from General Musings of an Idiot: http://www.gmoai.com
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