TikTok Or Not: Time to be Kind

Hey there, friends. First off, let me apologize for my little disappearing act over the last five days. Life decided to pull a fast one (as it often does), and I had to hit pause, breathe, and get my thoughts together. Sometimes you need to step back, untangle your mental spaghetti, and figure out how to make something worth sharing. Let’s face it, life isn’t always about sticking to a schedule—it's about making the moments count (even if those moments include a binge-worthy show and a bag of chips).

So, thank you for coming back. You could be anywhere right now, scrolling aimlessly or debating the merits of pineapple on pizza (it’s delicious, fight me), but you’re here. And for that, I’m grateful. Now, let’s dive into today’s topic and talk about why we really need to stop ruining what others love just because it’s not our thing.

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In recent discussions about social media platforms, particularly TikTok, it's easy to see how strong opinions can quickly polarize conversations. Some view it as a source of creativity and connection, while others see it as a digital wasteland filled with frivolity and questionable trends. But in the midst of all these debates, one truth stands out: the world would be a much better place if we could learn not to ruin what others love simply because we don’t share their enthusiasm.

TikTok, for example, is undeniably a haven for Gen Z, with its fast-paced trends, viral dances, and quirky humor. But it’s also a platform where people find inspiration, education, and even healing. From mental health advocates breaking stigma to artists sharing their creations, it’s a place that holds value for countless individuals. And yet, for some, the platform’s popularity becomes a reason to criticize, demean, or even advocate for its removal—often without considering the broader impact.

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Learning to Think Objectively

Being a positive, objective thinker doesn’t mean you have to love everything. It doesn’t mean you need to sign up for TikTok or suddenly get excited about viral dances. It means learning to separate personal distaste from the bigger picture. Just because something doesn’t serve you doesn’t mean it’s without merit.

Consider this: if a book you disliked brought someone else comfort, would you demand that it be removed from the library? Probably not. So why treat social platforms, hobbies, or entertainment any differently? What you see as “silly” or “a waste of time” might be someone else’s lifeline—a source of connection, creativity, or even income.

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The Role of Generations and Change

Part of the discomfort older generations have with platforms like TikTok stems from the fact that it’s different. Each generation has had its “thing” that baffled the ones before it. Boomers didn’t understand the music and activism of the 60s; Gen X faced judgment for embracing grunge and MTV; Millennials were mocked for their avocado toast and Instagram obsessions. And now, it’s Gen Z’s turn in the spotlight, with TikTok as their cultural epicenter.

Instead of scoffing at these generational shifts, we can choose to appreciate the creativity and connection behind them. After all, every new platform or trend brings its own flavor of innovation. TikTok, for example, has launched careers, sparked important conversations, and brought communities together in ways we never thought possible.

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Embracing What’s Good

We all have the ability to shift our perspective and find positives in things that initially rub us the wrong way. Maybe TikTok isn’t your favorite app, but you can still acknowledge the good it does. Maybe you’ll never scroll through it, but you can celebrate the young creators who have turned it into a space for self-expression.

By choosing to stay curious and open-minded, we give ourselves the chance to grow. And in doing so, we create a world where people can love what they love without fear of judgment or invalidation.

So, before you let your opinion overshadow the value something brings to others, take a step back. Ask yourself: is it hurting me, or am I simply not the audience for it? There’s a big difference between the two.

At the end of the day, positivity and objectivity go hand in hand. Let people find joy where they can, and you’ll find yourself carrying a little less judgment and a lot more peace.

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Only this moment exists, and in this moment, I am okay.