If You Follow Anything on Social Media, Have It Be These Best Practices

These are turbulent times. Social media is an undeniable force in our modern lives, for the good and the bad. Anyone that has gotten into a discussion on their favorite social service knows how it can escalate very quickly. Navigating these digital mediums with intention is key to making it a positive and productive part of your life.

In this month’s newsletter, we wanted to roll out some pretty simple social media tips to live by, helping you to build a healthier and more meaningful online presence.

Think Before You Post

This is the golden rule of social media. Before you share, ask yourself a few simple questions:

Is this post a true reflection of my values? Your social media profiles tell a story about you. Make sure it’s a story you’re proud of.

Would I be comfortable with this being seen by anyone—a future employer, a family member, or a stranger? Remember, even "private" accounts aren't completely secure. Content can be screenshotted and shared, living on the internet for years to come.

Is this positive and constructive? Avoid engaging with trolls or spreading negativity. Your online space is a reflection of you; keep it a place of respect and good vibes.

Curate Your Feed, Curate Your Mind

Your social media feed is like a digital garden—what you plant, you will grow. If you follow accounts that make you feel anxious, inadequate, or angry, your mental well-being will suffer. Take control of what you see:

• Audit your following list - Unfollow or mute accounts that don't add value to your life. This includes people who constantly complain, influencers who create unrealistic standards, or news accounts that promote constant anxiety.
• Actively seek out positivity - Follow accounts that inspire you, teach you something new, or simply make you smile. Fill your feed with art, educational content, humor, and things that align with your interests.
• Use the time-stamping method - Posting an experience after it has happened can help you stay present in the moment and maintain your real-time location privacy.

Protect Your Privacy

Social media is designed to encourage sharing, but it’s crucial to be cautious with personal information.

• Limit sensitive data - Avoid posting your home address, phone number, work or school location, and other personal details. Be mindful of photos that might inadvertently reveal this information.
• Disable geotagging -This feature, which tags your exact location, can be a security risk. Turn it off to protect your privacy.
• Don't rely on privacy settings alone - While they add a layer of security, they are not foolproof. Behave as if everything you post could be seen by the public.

Engage with Intention

Social media isn't just about broadcasting your own life; it's about connecting with others. Make your interactions meaningful.

• Respond thoughtfully - Instead of just liking a post, leave a genuine comment. Ask questions, offer support, and contribute to the conversation in a constructive way.
• Network wisely - Use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with people in your industry. When you share content, give proper credit to the original source.
• Avoid over-promotion - Whether you're a business owner or an individual, the 80/20 rule is a good guide: 80 percent of your content should be informative or entertaining, while no more than 20 percent should be self-promotional.

Take a Break

The most important social media tip of all is to know when to log off. Social media addiction is real, and the constant stream of notifications can be detrimental to your mental health.

• Set time limits - Use your phone’s built-in tools or third-party apps to track and limit your screen time.
• Schedule offline time - Make a conscious effort to put your phone away during meals, while spending time with loved ones, or before bed.
• Reflect on how you feel - Pay attention to your emotions while using social media. If you feel stressed or anxious, it might be a good time to take a break and engage in an activity that brings you joy in the real world.

By following these tips, you can transform your social media experience from a mindless scroll to a valuable tool for connection, creativity, and personal growth. For more great technology-related content, check out our blog on our website.