What if Being Authentic on Social Media Creates Conflict?
Authenticity is polarizing. When you focus on saying what’s really on your mind, you can expect to get feedback.
I once created a video sharing the story of how I started my business. In the video, I explained that I had quit my 9-5 job, maxed out my credit cards, depleted my savings, and most notably, moved back in with my parents to make it work.
“It was the biggest risk of my life,” I said, “but it was important to me that I had no other options in order to succeed.”
I later received a message from a friend and mentor telling me that it was important to acknowledge my privilege in being able to move back in with my parents, especially as a white woman working to be a leader.
She argued that I was successful because I had a place to move back to that was safe and comfortable, and that “failure” still meant there would be support from my family/friends.
Reading her message felt a little like getting punched in the gut. I put my head in my hands, let out a big sigh, and felt the denial pulsating through my entire body.
Although, deep down, I wondered, “Could she be right?”
Eventually, we spoke on the phone and exchanged heartfelt perspectives; I had seen my choice to move in with my parents as a sacrifice, she saw it as a privilege.
In the end, I believe she was right.
I am grateful that she had the courage to share her viewpoint with me. Our conversation helped me to acknowledge my privilege and consider different perspectives as I continue to create content and share my ideas online.
Personal Branding Tip
When you are authentic online, you may receive feedback on your beliefs and opinions.
It may not be true for you, but remember, it is always true for the person who is sharing it with you.
And in that regard, it might be important for you to consider.
Whatever feeling arises within you as you receive that feedback is completely natural and acceptable. Take a moment to step away and take a breath, but do yourself a favor by returning and considering it.
This might make you feel uncomfortable, but try to see if you can withstand that discomfort. Sometimes, the discomfort is our body’s way of telling us that we need to listen.
The extent to which you are willing to change your mind about what you believe is the extent to which you expand your own sense of identity.
Personal Question
When was the last time you received difficult feedback? Did you accept it or did you resist it? What was the outcome and how did it impact you?
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See you next week!
Anna Vatuone
annavatuone.com
