A new report by Knowledge Networks reports that 83% of Internet users ages 13 to 54 participates in social media, with 47% on a weekly basis. Out of the respondents, 54% most enjoy staying connected to friends and family, and meeting new people through social media. Ironically, the very use (or overuse) of social media can separate us from the ones closest to us, according to author Shane Hipps. The key is to use social media intentionally and in a balanced way.

Mashable.com offers tips on how to simplify your social media usage so you can use your time wisely and get the most of out it.

1. Use the right tools. Tools like TweetDeck, Digsby and even Gmail can combine multiple platforms into one place for you to quickly and easily check.
2. Send high-impact updates. Pack a punch with your messages, or run the risk of people unfollowing you. Share useful links, news related to your industry or something funny. The goal is for every message to be one that people want to share.
3. Scan. Be selective in what you read. It’s a waste of time to try to read everything. Find valuable sources of information to focus your time on those.
4. Simplify. For some, blogging and Twitter work the best; others may want to use Facebook and MySpace exclusively. Find out what’s worthwhile for you and use those as your main outlets instead of trying to use all of them.
5. Don’t follow everyone. Focus on building relationships with people you value most for whatever reason that may be.
6. Know your limits. Set regular schedules for checking messages and be sure to have boundaries in place to effectively manage your time wisely.