I started using X (formerly Twitter) back in 2007, not long after it was launched. Over the years, I have seen the platform change and evolve, but lately, it has become more toxic than ever. Under Elon Musk’s leadership since 2022, X has undergone significant changes, including a shift towards free speech, subscription-based verification, and a decrease in the workforce.
If you, like me, find it difficult to quit X altogether but are frustrated with the current state of the platform, there are ways to improve your experience. Here are some tips to help you navigate X in 2024:
1. Switch to the Following feed: By switching to the Following feed, you can see tweets only from the accounts you follow, eliminating unwanted content from the algorithm-driven For You feed.
2. Regularly audit who you’re following: Conducting regular audits of the accounts you follow can help you unfollow those that no longer align with your interests or values.
3. Don’t hesitate to Block and Mute people: Utilize the Block and Mute features to avoid engaging with accounts that spread negativity or divisiveness.
4. Populate Lists with good accounts: Create or follow Lists to curate content from specific themes or niches that interest you.
5. Mute all your notifications: Turn off notifications to minimize distractions and disruptions from X.
6. Limit doomscrolling: Avoid endlessly scrolling through negative content by setting boundaries on your X usage.
7. Limit your time on X and take breaks: Reduce your overall engagement with X to prevent burnout and prioritize your mental well-being.
By implementing these strategies, you can make your experience on X more tolerable and enjoyable. Remember, X is just one platform among many, and it’s essential to prioritize your mental health and well-being above all else. While X may continue to evolve, it’s up to you to decide how you engage with the platform and when to take a step back for your own sake.
