7 quick and useful online tips

Photo by Paul Watson

If you rely on the internet as much as I do (who doesn’t?), then you should always look out for ways to optimize and personalize your online activity. Below is a list of helpful things to consider that could save you time, and enable you to enjoy using the internet more.

1. Your online personality is an extension of you.
Remember, your online actions might be visible for the rest of your life, so keep your integrity online. For example, don’t befriend just anyone on facebook, or don’t post aggressive comments on people’s blogs (unless that’s your style or something). Basically, if you wouldn’t do it offline, don’t do it online.

2. Unsubscribe from emails you never check.
Really, there is no need to receive a daily update from your life insurance company. They will post you a letter if the information is crucial.

3. On the flip-side, subscribe to emails that will benefit you.
For example, I like to receive daily news emails. BBC’s daily email is pretty good as you can request updates by interest, region etc. If you prefer to hear what other bloggers are saying aboout current events, you should get an update from Global Voices. For the fashionistas out there, check out thefashionista blog.

4. Back up your data.
Do it regularly – every day if you can be arsed. At least once a week. Back up your files of course, but also your blog, your contacts, your bookmarks and any important chats.

5. Keep a list of all the social networks you have an account with.
You might end up signing up on social networks that you later forget. You mightn’t want people who search for you to find a ten year old profile on myinternetmates.com, stating that ‘Take That’ is your favourite band.

6. Take a day off.
Switch off for a day, don’t check your emails, tweets, status updates etc. (applies to your phone as well if you use mobile internet on it). Sitting in front of a computer is bad for your back, skin and your sight. Furthermore, there is the real world and real people out there too. Get off the net at least one day/month.

7. Listen to spotify.
Remember the good old days when you listened to music? Or are they becoming a distant memory? Listening to the radio at work doesn’t count. I’m talking about listening and savouring music. Set your spotify settings to open automatically when you log, and bob your head to your favourite tunes whilst you’re online.