Kindness counts: Practicing courtesy online
September is National Courtesy Month, a time to remember how much a little kindness can mean in our everyday interactions. While courtesy is often associated with saying "please" and "thank you" or holding the door open for someone, it is just as important in our digital lives.
We spend more time than ever communicating online. From social media and group chats to gaming and online communities, our words can reach hundreds or even thousands of people in seconds. That makes it more important than ever to think before we type and remember that there is a real person on the other side of the screen.
Words have an impact
It can be easy to say something online that you might never say to someone's face. The distance of a screen can make hurtful comments feel less serious, but the impact on the person receiving them can be very real.
Cyberbullying can include sending mean or threatening messages, spreading rumors, posting embarrassing content, intentionally excluding someone from online groups or repeatedly making hurtful comments. What may seem like a joke to one person can be deeply hurtful to another.
That's why one of the simplest ways to practice online courtesy is to pause before you post.
Ask yourself:
- Would I say this to someone's face?
- Could this comment hurt or embarrass someone?
- Am I posting this because it's helpful or because I'm trying to get a reaction?
- Would I want someone to say this about me?
If the answer makes you hesitate, it's probably better not to post it.
Don't join in
Cyberbullying isn't always about being the person who starts the conversation. Liking, sharing or commenting on hurtful content can help it spread.
If you see someone being bullied online, don't add to it. Instead, consider reporting the content and blocking the person responsible.
Sometimes, simply sending an encouraging message to the person being targeted can make a difference.
Think before you hit send
Being kind online doesn't mean you have to agree with everyone. People will have different opinions, interests and perspectives. It's possible to disagree without being disrespectful.
Remember that your online interactions can have a lasting impact. Screenshots can be saved and shared and comments can reach a much larger audience than you intended.
Before you hit send, post or share, take a moment to consider how your words could make someone else feel.
Let's make the internet a little kinder
At Central Access, we believe being connected is about more than having a reliable internet connection. It's also about how we use that connection to communicate, learn, work and interact with others.
This National Courtesy Month, let's make kindness part of our online habits. Think before you type, treat others with respect and remember that behind every screen is a person.
A little courtesy can go a long way…online and off.