June 30 marks “World Social Media Day”—that digital jungle where we share our vacations, our opinions, our cats… and sometimes, a little too much information. When used mindfully, social media can connect us, inspire us, and make us think. When misused, it can wound, divide, and drain us. Like anything powerful, it calls for an ethical user manual.
Because we all deserve better than toxic comment threads or doomscrolling-induced headaches, here are some basic rules for healthy, respectful social media use—with a touch of humor, but a whole lot of sincerity.
The 10 Commandments of a Kind Internet User
Thou shalt think before posting.
If it wouldn’t fly in a meeting or at your in-laws’ dinner table, take it as a sign.
Thou shalt respect consent.
Tagging someone, posting their photo, or telling their story without permission? Not cool. Ask first.
Thou shalt fact-check before sharing.
No, your cousin doesn’t have proof aliens run the government. (Not yet, anyway.)
Thou shalt remember there’s a human behind the screen.
Before rage-commenting, breathe. Responding with respect is an act of rebellion.
Thou shalt avoid toxic comparisons.
Other people’s “perfect” lives are filtered. Yours is real. And that’s beautiful.
Thou shalt credit creators.
A funny meme or inspiring image? Credit the source. It’s about respect.
Thou shalt take digital breaks.
The real world has trees, sunshine, and people who speak without emojis.
Thou shalt not feel the need to comment on everything.
Silence is sometimes just as valid as a 200-word opinion.
Thou shalt report hateful content.
Doing nothing lets it slide. Taking action helps protect others.
Thou shalt use your platforms for good.
A kind word, a positive post, an inclusive message—every click matters.
Finally, social media isn’t good or bad—it’s all about “how” we use it. So what if, on this World Social Media Day, we chose to make it a space that’s more human, more respectful… and a little less noisy?
And you—what’s one rule you wish everyone would follow starting today ?
