The Online World is all about interaction. We game with friends. We watch streams and stories. We like, comment, and share posts from all different apps, platforms, and profiles. 

It’s exciting to share the things we do and the places we explore with close friends and family, as well as people from all over the world. We also spend hours looking at other people’s posts! With every heart, like, and streak, there may also be hurtful or inappropriate comments left. It’s easy to blame this on trolls and cyberbullies. But how often do we look at our own online behaviour? 

Think about it: have you ever posted or commented on something online that you wish you hadn’t? If you have, then you’re not alone.  

 Negative comments seem to be a normal part of our online lives. These are often made without considering how someone might feel. It can become a cycle of arguing, trolling, and cyberbullying.  

 Isn’t it time to stop the cycle and make our online world a kinder place to be? It starts with you!  

Tips for a Kinder Online World  

Stop and think before you post
It sounds simple, but this might be the most difficult step! Try going through this checklist before you post something:
– Is this helpful?
– Is this kind?
– Is there a better way to say this? 

If you can’t answer yes, then it is probably time to…  

Take 10
If you’re feeling angry or upset, put down whatever device you’re using and walk away. Take 10 minutes offline to give yourself a break. This will help give you some space and may stop you from doing something you would regret later. 

Encourage others
Set yourself some online encouragement challenges – how many kind comments can you give today? This could be fun emojis on a friend’s Instagram post, brightening someone’s day through a voice note, or reacting to a livestream.  

Check your headspace
With the amount of time we spend online these days, you may find yourself a little less patient. Try talking to someone about how you’re feeling. This might be a friend, a family member, or a teacher. If you’d prefer to stay anonymous, you can speak to Childline by ringing 0800 111. or email.  

Be proactive
If you see something, do something. You might feel bad about reporting a hurtful post or harmful content but you’re actually being kind to yourself and others. There are also options for blocking, unfollowing, and muting other users whose online content is making you struggle. Make sure you familiarise yourself with these settings on all the platforms you use! 

Choose your platforms wisely
If your TikTok ‘For You Page’ shows you videos that target and make fun of others, it’s probably not going to be easy for you to make kinder choices. These posts can have a negative effect on your overall mood. Instead, try following pages and profiles that focus on your interests in a positive way. You’ll find helpful inspiration for your online (and offline) life! 

So, what will you be liking and sharing today? Let’s get #kindness trending! And remember –  in an digital world where you can be anything, choose to be kind.