8 Ways to Make the Internet a More Positive Place

We’re not going to pretend like there isn’t a lot of terrible, hurtful stuff on the internet -- a quick scroll through the right (wrong?) Twitter threads or subreddits can tell you as much. We’re ALSO not going to underestimate just how many genuinely lovely people and communities there are online -- and the power that they have. You can do your part in keeping the internet a kind and positive place with these eight tips (warning: wholesome content ahead).

It’s easy to feel angry, frustrated, or sad when we see this negative stuff online. The good news is, it’s just as easy to do something about it. Join a movement of young people who have already anonymously flagged 16,376 cyberbullying posts through our Shred Hate campaign, presented by ESPN , MLB, and the X Games. A safer, happier, better internet starts right here, with us.

1. Follow the good, not the bad.

Have you ever heard the phrase: garbage in, garbage out? That’s right, it’s time to KonMari your following list. Take a minute to unfollow any accounts or users that make you feel bad about yourself or the world at large. We’re gonna pass on the hate-following and “cringe” accounts and opt for something that sparks a little more joy. Like maybe this account that tweets from the perspective of a Very Good Dog (maybe you prefer a bear?), or this one that posts real and silly jokes written by kids.

2. Spread positive content.

This one shouldn’t be too hard once you’ve got your perfectly curated list of Good Content (see above). Besides sharing those cute critters and heartwarming memes, make sure the things you’re writing and creating are just as positive. Practice starting with the good! Instead of, “I’m so stressed, and everything is annoying,” try something like, “I just finished this project, and I worked really hard on it.”

(Getting a little meta here: spread positivity online by sharing this guide about positivity online to help others create… positivity online!)

3. Be kind in the comments.

Sometimes, just the mention of certain comment sections is enough to get us nervously sweating. But it doesn’t have to be that way! The next time you see something online that you enjoyed, drop a few compliments or contribute positively to discussions with other commenters. The occasional mean comment might remain, but they’ll get lost in all the good vibes.

4. Anonymously report bullying and hate.

Consider yourself a silent vigilante of the internet (if it helps, also envision yourself with a cool cape). Most social media platforms have a way to anonymously report posts or comments that go against their community standards, so make the internet a kinder place by flagging cyberbullying and other harmful content.

5. Be a certified hype-person.

We encourage you to channel some DJ Khaled energy and become a person that wholeheartedly uplifts others. There’s plenty to celebrate when it comes to our friends and families. Make cheesy birthday posts, shout-out their recent accomplishments, share the cool work they’re doing, spam their selfies with heart-eyes emojis -- just make it your mission to make their day.

6. Leave positive reviews.

In the world of online shopping and mobile ordering, reviews are pretty important, and sometimes it’s easy to forget that reviews aren’t just for bad experiences. If you really love a person/place/thing, let them know! Not only does it give them some well-deserved props, it also helps bring more people their way.

7. Give some advice.

The internet makes it easy to ask our most pressing questions and (hopefully) get some answers. Where can I find new music? How do I make new friends? What’s the meaning of life? (Okay, maybe not that last one...though we have some thoughts.) Offer a few words of wisdom to folks online, and maybe you can help make someone feel a little less alone in the process.

8. Step away from the screen.

If you’ve been scrolling online for a while, this is your reminder to unclench your jaw, let your shoulders drop, and take a few minutes to stretch out your legs. There’s a lot of physical and mental tension that can build up when you’re spending a lot of time plugged in, and it can influence your behavior online. Sometimes the best thing you can do for yourself is to take a break and come back refreshed.