Chasing Likes

I am not a people pleaser. I do not go out of my way to make people like me. I do not like to attract attention to myself. I do not talk about myself and my interests incessantly and in great detail. I am generally amiable, and I try to keep the peace if one exists, or make it, if necessary. I avoid doing things which might cause people to dislike me, but I only go along with the crowd if doing so does not compromise my integrity. I know these things about myself.

I understand the fickle nature of popularity. I know that popularity does not necessarily equate to quality. I know that much of what is good, even great in this world, in terms of music, art and literature is, and will most likely remain, unknown to the masses.

I understand the limitations of time and human attention spans. I appreciate the fact the people are resistant to authority, and prefer to dwell in the land of moral relativity where life is easier. I know most people use some kind of anasthetic to help them cope with pain and stress. I know that people hide from uncomfortable truths.

This knowledge informs and underpins my writing, and helps me deal with the paradox of my personality. As I writer I crave readers, lots of them. My pursuit of fame, means I chase Likes. I have to talk about myself and my work. I have to push myself "out there" if I want to share what I have to say with as many people as possible. I am still a little discomfited by this kind of activity, but I am hopeful that in time, as my readership grows into the thousands and tens of thousands (modest ambition) I will become, with God's help, more relaxed in the role of self promoter.

When do you behave differently from how you usually would?

Photo sources and related articles:
http://pinaystoryteller.wordpress.com/2010/12/01/on-being-a-people-pleaser/
http://karenheimbuch.com/a-short-attention-span/