Being a smart, thoughtful user online is one of the best ways to protect your mental health. As Dr. Jean Twenge, a leading professor who studies our generation and technology, has found, there’s a powerful link between what we do online and how we feel. She has said that “the more time you spend on social media, the more likely you are to be unhappy.”
To help you on your super-hero journey, here are some important rules to remember, with some timeless wisdom to guide you.
Be a Fact Detective! Don’t believe everything you see online right away. Be curious and ask questions. Look for clues from websites and people you trust. It’s like double-checking a rumor on the playground—you want to know what’s reallytrue.
Be an Explorer! Just like you explore different games on the playground, explore different ideas and websites online. It’s good to see different points of view and learn new things instead of just sticking to the same ideas.
Be a Story Thinker! Who is telling you this story online? Why are they telling it? Are they trying to help you, or are they trying to get something from you? Think about their reasons, just like you would with any story you hear.
Be a Playground Helper! Use the internet to share good ideas and be friendly and supportive. We help each other on the playground, and we can do the same online. Remember the wise words of Buddha: “Speak only endearing speech, speech that is accepted.” This means using kind words that build people up, not words that hurt.
Be a Truth Teller! Share only real and accurate information. Don’t spread rumors or things you know aren’t true. As the wise thinker Confucius said, “What you do not wish for yourself, do not do to others.” You wouldn’t want someone to lie to you online, so you shouldn’t do it to others.
Be a Thoughtful User! The ancient philosopher Aristotle said, “The ultimate value of life depends upon awareness and the power of contemplation rather than upon mere survival.” He’s reminding us that the best part of life is paying attention and thinking deeply. Don’t just blindly click and scroll. Be aware of what you’re seeing and think carefully about it. By being a thoughtful user, you make the online world a more valuable place for everyone.