There seems to be so much wrong with the world today and lately, it can feel like America is circling the drain. As a passionate activist who just wants the world to be a better place, facing the constant tsunami of hatred and ignorance can be taxing—heartbreaking even. With social media being the main method of sharing and discussing the most powerful and most painful parts of society, the sudden floods of negative information and news can make us forget just how important our words are, and being worn down is normal. Amidst the craziness that social conversations can be—on Facebook or otherwise—taking a minute for us becomes necessary.
It is okay not to fight every battle.
Facebook posts can be powerful; they share news and propel your voice out into a larger community. Sometimes, however, when it's bad news day after day, it can become overwhelming to fight with someone on every post about the rationality of the Black Lives Matter movement or reproductive rights. It’s okay to choose not to have that conversation. Sometimes your beliefs or feelings are concrete and explaining them further is not necessary or wanted. Be true to that. You haven’t lost by choosing to leave that critical comment sitting there unanswered.
Sometimes, it’s okay to preach to the choir.
Safe spaces are not only recommended but also necessary. It can be therapeutic in a world with such differing views to have someone shout “YAASSS” when you explain something that’s making you mad. Regardless of your political or social affiliations, having people who can help talk things out with you and provide a place to vent is a necessary part of being successful. These people are often the first to come to your aid, personally or publicly, when they can tell a troll is overwhelming you.
It’s okay to disagree.
There’s no way that you’re going to change everyone’s mind. That is the sad reality of being human, but sometimes taking a step back and asking the people who disagree with you why they believe what they do can help add some clarity. As infuriating as it might be constantly defending things that seem like common sense to you, removing yourself from the line of fire can be helpful in easing some tension. Really unpacking their beliefs with them can add an element of respect that makes having difficult conversations just a little bit easier.
Disconnect from technology.
Our phones are our portals into the national and global community. As wonderful as social media can be for connecting with summer friends over seas, sharing funny videos and telling your roommate you miss her too much to handle, there is so much that’s tough to swallow. As much as you may feel obligated to participate in conversations about all of the tough stuff America is facing, it’s okay not to. The world’s success does not lie solely on your shoulders, so give yourself a break. Turn that phone off for a minute, read a fluffy book, talk to your friend about dating problems, go outside and make yourself some tea. The world will be there when you get back.
Reward yourself and others.
Do not forget in all of your work to make the world recognize its greatness that you deserve a little bit of praise too. Whether or not you feel like it, you are making a difference. Every voice speaking is another powerful piece of an increasingly strong network. Your worth and your value are meaningful in a way that cannot be measured. Go on that vacation you’ve been putting off, buy yourself that celebratory ice cream, and when you see someone else in your community working hard to make the world a better place, shout them out. You aren’t alone, and reminding others that you value their words and their effort can make it so much easier to assert your beliefs confidently.
Social activism is important, but so are you. Don’t forget in the chaos that the world is sometimes that you are serving a tremendous purpose. Take the time to refill your cup so that when the time comes, you’re prepared to fight the battles you are most passionate about.
