Part 4/9:
Social reputation is another wind that many chase avidly, especially in the age of social media where attention is currency. Fame can propel us to heights, yet it’s equally fragile. Disgrace or irrelevance can strike suddenly, regardless of how much effort we put into maintaining our reputation. Clinging to relevance or validation from others makes us vulnerable to these shifting winds.
Praise and Blame
Personal stories of success—such as Stefan’s experience with growing his YouTube channel—illustrate how praise and criticism are fleeting. Early praise can feel exhilarating, but as public attention wanes, feelings of worth or self-esteem can plummet. Recognizing the temporary nature of approval helps in developing resilience.