Inventive. Inclusive. Humble. Collaborative. These are 4 keys to promoting positive change with the social media tools at your disposal.

1. Take advantage of interactive activism opportunities in online communities.

Research shows that people are more likely to participate in causes with social or interactive aspects that have a personal feel. This was what helped the ALS Association Ice Bucket Challenge go viral.

2. Make sure your activism is accessible and inclusive

The best thing about social media activism is how accessible it can be. Actions like organizing, going door-to-door for a campaign, or showing up for an in-person protest can be expensive and dangerous — especially for people of color and other marginalized people. They can also be downright inaccessible for people with disabilities.

3. Remember that small steps are critical to getting the work done

Particularly with our constant access to information, it can be easy to lose sight of how small pieces of the puzzle are crucial to effecting larger, long-lasting change. But small steps — like voting in local and state elections, calling your representatives, or creating a community group for political education — have a major impact.

4. Share the work that other activists are doing

If you’re feeling a little lost or defeated — or you just need some time for self-care — that’s okay, too. Remember that you can’t do everything, be a part of every cause, and commit to every possible social or political action. Amplify the work that you see other activists doing, even if you can’t take part personally.

Read a fuller treatment by Alaina Leary, “Social Media Has Its Pitfalls But You Can Use It For Positive Change — Here’s How“