wholesome truth about popularity

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Here’s something that’s been bothering me lately:

I’ve heard so many people claiming that popularity doesn’t matter as they constantly check their follower counts and try every way possible to make their pictures more appealing. 

Bruh. Be real to yourself. You care about that number a lot and desire to be the center of everyone’s attention. I can’t speak for everyone, but I certainly feel this way sometimes. The pressure to be “cool” is overwhelming. If you are on the inside, you do everything you can to protect that position. If you aren’t, you either fight to get in or start to hate the game. The fact that social media is the center of our lives does not help a single bit in this problem. When we spot someone hanging out without inviting us, or when we realize that someone follows and then unfollows us, or, worst of all, when your best friend doesn't like and comment on your post, the feeling of rage or jealousy naturally bursts out. These are all common instances that everyone goes through. There is no need to hide it with “Ohh, popularity is so overrated.” Don’t get me wrong, of course I’m not romanticizing the concept of “popularity.” All I’m saying is that seeking validation and acceptance is totally normal and we all need to rationalize this feeling. Be true to your feelings. This is the best way to fix the problem. 

Now, I will get to my point.

Constantly seeking the feeling of belonging and acceptance comes with a price that will drain your life away.

When you find that it is necessary to go to “cool” places, wear “cool” clothes, and hang out with the “cool” kids, you are locking down your opportunities to find joy in life. I’m also saying this to myself. Oftentimes, I get mad over not having enough likes on my posts or seeing people having fun without me. I do admit: it is annoying to see people showing off their happiness on social media. So what? Let that shit go! Here’s the truth: cool people don’t actually show off everytime they hang out. Remember that. Everyone should focus on things that YOU FIND COOL. Wear your pajamas to school even if it’s not spirit week. Read your favorite book at your lunch table. Get off of your social media every now and then and enjoy life in its purest form. We already have issues of social anxiety, heartbreak, stupid mistakes, failed friendships, and struggles with self-identity on our plates. Don't add “popularity” to the long list. 

As the saying goes, "Always be a first-rate version of yourself, not a second-rate version of someone else." Other people’s perception of you doesn’t shape your self worth and certainly are not enough to trump your own opinions about yourself. Always put yourself first.