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First, a disclaimer: These are the rules I try to follow. But I'm not perfect - I've broken them; I've made mistakes.

But in general, I've stuck to them. I do think they've allowed me to have a better social media experience in the last 3 years than many, & I'm grateful.

2/9

1. Tweet with intent

I try to not to tweet reactively or randomly. Doesn't mean everything has to be science, but does mean I try to ask, "why am I tweeting this? what am I trying to accomplish?" This keeps me more focused in what I choose to share.

3/9

2. Stay positive

Sometimes a real challenge in the last 3 yrs, but if I'm criticising or sharing bad news, I try to include what we can do about it (provide actionable next steps) & a reminder that it's never too late to try to do better (hope). Prevents helplessness.

4/9

3. Engage in good faith

See also 5 - but I try to read responses/Qs in the best light I can, if someone seems to genuinely have a question or misunderstanding. Responding in good faith has often turned a bad interaction around & left both of us happier!

5/9

4. You don't owe anyone a response

This one is a big one for me. This is Twitter, not a conference or meeting. I never have to respond if I don't want to or don't have the energy. Nobody can demand a response from me. It's my time/energy to give if I so choose.

6/9

5. Never feed the trolls

It can take all my self control not to clap back sometimes, but I rarely do. Because it's not worth it: they have more time/energy than you & you'll never win. Plus you are so boring they leave you alone! & prevents angry replies you may regret.

7/9

Sometime following these rules means writing "friendly" replies through gritted teeth. Sometimes it means shutting down the whole thing for 2 days so I don't explode at someone who really got under my skin. Sometimes it means sitting on a thread for a day to think it over.

8/9

@firefoxx66
such a good thread! all in all much the experiences I made (confimation bias checked)