Most people chase likes, compliments, and approval. It is easy to get caught up in the need for recognition, especially in today's world where social media thrives on validation. But in the long run, chasing approval does not lead to real growth. Seek wisdom instead.
True learning never stops. Read books. Learn from the greats. Question everything. There is always more to understand, and wisdom comes from seeking knowledge, not applause. As Seneca said, "as long as you live, keep learning how to live." That means being open to new ideas, rethinking old beliefs, and understanding that knowledge is a lifelong journey.
Validation is fleeting. You might get a thousand likes today, but will they mean anything a year from now? Wisdom lasts forever. It shapes who you are, how you think, and the legacy you leave behind.
I would rather be respected for what I know than admired for what I pretend to be. Growth is uncomfortable. It requires admitting when you are wrong and being willing to change. But in the end, it is worth it.
I had a father that taught us to not follow the herd. In the summers he took us to live in a shack on the north shore of Oahu.
He would lie in his hammock and read a book a day. We had just enough "toys" (surfboard, raft, air-buoy, fishing poles) to keep us busy on the reefs all day.
Now, every time I switch over to the other desktop in Windows, there's a fresh new batch of posts just waiting for validation on Facebook. It's so sad to see.
https://youtu.be/SxAjfd9YCiw?si=pOxpRB6TqGUKrnoa
Lisa Snider
@Reply 15 months ago
And it would not surprise me one bit to find out many of the conspiracy nuts and influencers online don't "buy into" what they are posting, but are only looking for clicks and likes. The more outrageous things posted, the less likely I am to respond... I just scroll on by. Sadly, some folks feel the need to react to EVERYTHING they see, without giving a moment's thought to whether what they are reading is true, or just invented nonsense.
Thomas Gonder
@Reply 15 months ago
Hi Lisa, have you found anything on social media (yes Facebook, I mean you), except for from a few friends about something in their lives, that isn't invented nonsense? I've responded at times with facts backed up with reliable data, and people just start calling me names. It's pretty disheartening.
Lisa Snider
@Reply 15 months ago
Yes Thomas, there are some, but I've moved mostly to BlueSky, where I can steer what I see to topics I'm interested in.
Lisa Snider
@Reply 15 months ago
Lisa Snider
@Reply 15 months ago
But I'm posting a countdown each day to both FB and BlueSky... to give everyone a little to look forward to. :)
Thomas Gonder
@Reply 15 months ago
It may be time I get serious about investigating and maybe using BlueSky, if they've overcome their growing pains.
Lisa Snider
@Reply 15 months ago
30 Million users and still growing.
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