Are you checking in?

Admittedly, it has been a slower news day in my tech sphere, and I have not had a ton of time to do more research. But I find myself wondering tonight: how many people check in, and do you think it is a good idea to do so?

While I understand privacy concerns, I leave my life mainly open for the public. I tend to share my life with the world through Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc. At any given time, those in my circle on social media know where I am, what I am doing, and who I am doing it with. Why do I do this you ask? Is it vanity of making others jealous, or is it simply to let others know? Well, honestly, it is a little both. The most important issue others see with this lifestyle is that I am letting the entire world know where I am.

I get the hesitation with checking in on social media. For instance, if someone would wish to harm me for some strange reason, they would know where to find me. Also, if someone would desire to rob me, they would know that I am not home. Trust me, I completely understand this thought process as I am leaving my world exposed to the world in hopes they will do nothing to harm me. However, my response would be, "Well shit, oh well I guess".

I know that statement seems dismissive and a little insane, but that is the risk you take when you choose to be connected. If someone wanted to find me or know where I am, they would find a way to find me so all I am doing is removing the hassle. I choose to live a life of openness in the public where others know what I am doing when I am doing it, and I am perfectly okay with that.

But, I am more interested in how others make that decision. As a way of connecting, I may make it a Sunday tradition to ask for input. I mean, do you really just want to listen to me all the time? So, do you hit that check in button? Why do you do it? And, if you don't, what are your reasons for staying hidden?