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I write about the relationship between technology and happiness. Sometimes I write about problems with technology. Sometimes I write about how we can interact with technology more effectively. But today I want to share with you six ways you can use technology to make a positive difference in the world:
1. Join a mission-oriented online group.
There are now tons of online groups. Many of these groups focus on common interests—for example, cats, cooking, or sports. But other groups focus on common goals—for example, electing a particular political candidate, addressing an important social problem, or raising money for an important cause. Joining one of these mission-oriented groups can be a great way to get started making a difference with very little time investment or risk. You can even try out a few groups to see which ones fit you best and boost your happiness the most.
2. Raise money for a good cause.
Increasingly, social media can be used to raise money for good causes. My friend Kyra sold T-shirts on Facebook to raise money for an organization she wanted to support. And Patrick asked friends to donate to a charity for his birthday present. You can do things like this too. By making your online interactions less about yourself and more about making a positive difference for others, you'll likely feel better about yourself and boost your happiness.
3. Leave kind words for others who contribute something positive.
Instead of just clicking away after enjoying a video, picture, or article, take a moment to leave a kind note for the person who created it or shared it. Devote a bit more time than it would take to simply click a like button, and instead say something genuine and from your heart. Believe me, the other person will really appreciate it and you'll leave feeling more satisfied than you would have had you skipped leaving a kind comment.
4. Start your own website.
Got some skills or knowledge that could benefit others? Consider starting you own website. It can take a long time to build up a website, but people will appreciate it if you offer them something of value. My website on how to build happiness in the digital age, for example, has taken years to build up to just a hundred or so pages. But more and more people stop by all the time, happy to have a helpful quiz and free happiness report.
What might you share with the world? Your knowledge, art, ideas, or something else? It's really easy now with free website builders like Weebly or Wordpress.
5. Volunteer remotely.
Another way you can make a difference online is by offering to volunteer for a non-profit organization. Oftentimes there are tasks that can be done virtually and remotely. As a volunteer, you'll have less responsibility but still have an opportunity to make a real impact on the social problem of your choice.
6. Donate to a good cause.
Even though all of the suggestions above take minimal time, maybe your time is just completely booked up. Instead of donating time, you can donate to your favorite cause. For example, I recently donated to one of my favorite bloggers to support her writing.
There all sorts of ways to make a difference now that we have easy access to the internet. Go ahead and give it a try.
To learn more about how to build happiness in the digital age, visit berkeleywellbeing.com.
