The Irony Of Internet "Presence"
PUBLIC PERCEPTION
How often do you look at your story views? Or count the likes on your latest post? Even covet fits on the street? We are creatures of comparison and that has only been exacerbated by the advent of social media. Even without being in the “public eye” like some of the internet’s biggest stars, we’re all on display one way or another. It’s your approach and how you choose to view it that will lead to clarity.
As digital natives, being online is embedded in our DNA. We were around for the creation and eventual societal integration of social media. When did it become less about being online and more about having an online presence? Ordinarily, I’d have other thoughts in mind, but as I’ve been deeply consumed by TikTok this past year, my views have changed. Social media and public perception have become bonafide career paths, some as reputable day jobs, and others as fanciful escape routes. You can really change your life through this shit, so why wouldn’t we all try to position ourselves accordingly? Couple viral toks and you’re swimming in brand sponsorships – so, what’s the catch?
Well, other than having to be consistently talented and entertaining, one’s mental fortitude is put to the ultimate test. Perhaps our mental health is more important than the views and likes, but once you’ve hit a hypothetical home run online, there’s no going back to the dugout. The people want more, and you’re either going to fade away and face slight criticism from trolls or rise to the occasion and harbor all the stress of producing on a daily basis. However, all that to say, ask yourself this simple question:
WHO GIVES A FUCK?
The internet is hilarious to me, and I’m someone who grew up in the COD MW2 lobby era. The number of slurs, obscenities, screeching, and barking I heard directed towards me while trying to capture the flag has made me Teflon tough. Once you get wrapped up in your own numbers or perception, you have to go back to those roots. The internet is like a bountiful wasteland; a double-negative to suggest it’s fruits of nothingness. It’s the internet, bro! Who cares?
I remember when we got our first hate on the pod. It was an epic moment of validation. You aren’t doing it right if you aren’t inspiring some parody. Would you rather be in the conversation or stay invisible? Furthermore – to the point of my article – wouldn’t you rather just create the way you want to and derive fulfillment from that + the positive interactions, and then let the people interpret it as they please? Bottom line, you have to do what makes you happy and gives you purposeful. You should never do that for a company, individual, or internet Peanut Gallery. Honestly, I think that’s the key to this game. Awareness of the following or community, but selective ignorance on their opinion. Remember that feedback and hate are very different things.
Sit back and stare into the screen, man. It’s all a game, and it’s all about how you play it.
About The Series
Sometimes you gotta set your own deadlines to get where you wanna go. 15 articles for 15 weeks, all randomly selected until we reach the last. Maybe then I’ll form the habit? Each week selected and announced through TikTok if anyone cares.
Graham Olney
Graham is the host of Tough To Say (sorry, Barry). In hopes of forming better writing habits, he’s committing to a 15 week self-imposed program to sharpen the skills.