Digitally Literate or Digitally Dragged?
Danica Downloads wants to be more intentional about how she shows up online
Digitally Literate or Digitally Dragged?
How to scroll smarter, post wiser, and keep your receipts clean.
The internet is a dumpster fire right now.
Everywhere you scroll, it feels like people are beefing about everything: race, politics, celebrities, gender wars, who should pay on the first date, who’s “real” and who’s “performative.” It’s exhausting. And if you’re paying attention, it’s also deeply chaotic. Social media has gone from being a place of connection to a battlefield. And let’s be honest, most of us weren’t ready for the responsibility that comes with being public figures online. In fact, most of us don’t realize that we are public figures, even if we are broadcasting to our private channels.
And yet, no one really taught us how to use them.
Between misinformation, viral rants, rage-bait videos, and clapbacks, it’s become clear—we need digital literacy now more than ever. Not just for young people or people with influence, but for everybody. Because what you say and share online can impact your mental well-being and your money. That’s not fearmongering. That’s just facts.
So, let’s break it down.
Why Digital Literacy Matters (More Than Ever)
We live in a world where you can be “canceled” for a tweet, fired for a TikTok, or lose a contract over a comment. And while free speech exists, let’s be clear: freedom of speech does not equal freedom from consequences.
The internet has erased the boundaries between public and private life. You might be posting to your close friends, but you’re always just one screenshot away from going viral—and not always the good kind. Add to that the real-life beefs that are sparked by online content, and we’re dealing with a whole new digital landscape that many of us are simply not prepared for.
Digital literacy isn’t about being tech-savvy. It’s about being smart with your digital presence. It’s about making sure your online actions don’t jeopardize your offline life. That’s why I created this digital literacy 101 breakdown. Whether you’re here to educate, connect, build your brand, or just scroll in peace, how you move online matters.
💻 Digital Literacy 101: How to Not Get Dragged
Here’s your crash course in keeping it cute and conscious online:
#1 Determine how you want to engage online
Are you here for:
Personal expression? Keep it fun, but know that people will make assumptions based on what you post.
Professional growth? Align your content with your goals as your next opportunity could be watching.
Both? Balance your voice with some intentional boundaries. You don’t need to post everything.
#2 Think before you post
Ask yourself: Why am I posting this? What do I want people to take away?
Don’t post when angry, tired, or scrolling through mess.
Consider: Would I say this in a room full of strangers?
#3 Think before you engage
Not every post needs your commentary.
Don’t argue with people who are committed to misunderstanding you.
Remember: the algorithm loves drama—but that doesn’t mean you need to feed it.
#4 Verify before you share
Google it. Seriously.
Check the date, source, and context.
If it’s too outrageous to be true, it probably is.
#4 Use common sense
Don’t post anything you wouldn’t want your employer, future client, grandma, or 13-year-old cousin to see.
Protect your peace and your paper. Always.
What to Do Next
This internet thing? It’s not going anywhere. But that doesn’t mean we can’t use it better.
Download the free Scroll Check Toolkit to help you define how you want to show up online—personally and professionally. It’s practical and designed to help you scroll, post, and engage with intention. And if you want a little more context on why all of this matters, read the latest Hustle Rewritten Substack: “There’s No Grace Left in the Algorithm.” It’ll help you see the bigger picture behind all the digital chaos. Finally, if you’re building a brand or business and want to craft a real strategy that reflects your values (not just what’s trending), check out our Creative Studio services. We’ll help you show up in the digital world like the boss you are—smart, strategic, and unbothered.