Let’s try an experiment in empathy and non-reactivity.
Imagine you just posted something about your newest creation (make it unique to you as an artist, musician, writer, etc.). Imagine how excited you are to share this new creation. Maybe this is the one that gets a ton of attention, maybe you make some money, maybe you gain some followers.
Then you receive a comment – “This is trash. Just stop trying.”
How does that feel? What thoughts does that evoke in your mind?
Wouldn’t it be rad if you could receive comments like this and not only be unbothered, but feel empathy and maybe even form ideas for more creative content?
When you start posting consistently on social media, especially tik tok, you’re going to receive a lot of comments from strangers. If you aren’t able to handle seemingly malicious comments, you should not post content. You can’t expect to never receive hate in response to your creativity.
Here is my typical pathway towards calm, and what I believe are productive responses to rude comments: As soon as I read it, I have a brief moment of “Damn, that was rude…” but before I let it bother me and prevent my progress, I ask myself “Why might this person be saying this?” and “Can I turn this into something that benefits me and others?”
It doesn’t matter if you’re making up an entire backstory for this internet troll – whatever it takes to make you feel empathy for them is beneficial. “Your art is horrible” – I bet that person’s creativity has been repressed for years by their family and friends. All they want is to express themselves through creativity, but no one around them is supportive or gives them space to do so.
“Your music sounds like shit!” – damn, this person just wants to have the courage to share their own music online. It probably feels horrible to see someone else doing exactly what you want to be doing, but not having the confidence to yet.
You get the idea. These comments don’t have to upset you. The only way for them to be considered malicious is if you allow your mind to consider them as such. Turn them into a teachable moment. Train your brain to empathize and see how you can use it to help someone.
Maybe you can create content as a way to answer the questions and find solutions to the challenges the people in your made-up backstories have. How did you gain the confidence to start posting? How do you find inspiration? Do you have any stories of overcoming unsupportive family and friends?
Everything can be viewed from multiple angles. When you receive a comment that initially appears rude, flip it on its head. Turn their words into something positive, something that doesn’t hinder your growth, but encourages it.
June 10, 2022
