The Wellness of Going Viral: Keeping your Cool (& Sanity) When Your Account is on Fire

Hiya, fellow Chronically Onliner!

You’re a social media maven so you’ve undoubtedly thought about it - the big moment that we all hope for, GOING VIRAL.

Imagine this: you post a seemingly innocent video, and bam! it goes viral. Suddenly, you (or your client) are the talk of the digital-town, trending across FYPs worldwide. Ah, the thrilling world of social media success. But hold your horses, because beneath the glitz and glamour lies a whole universe of challenges and internet uglies. Thus is life in the world of Social. We got you - buckle up as we guide you through going viral without loosing your soul or mind.

What Can Come with Going Viral:

1. Navigating the Comments: When trolls unleash chaos

   Congratulations! Your post just hit the big time. But wait, what's that lurking beneath the surface? Ah, yes, the treacherous world of mean-spirited comments from @username932650 - the beloved internet troll. Brace yourself for an onslaught of keyboard warriors armed with way too much time on their hands and more opinion than common sense. Remember, their comments don't define you or your content. Take it with a pinch of salt and let their negativity be just another contribution to your engagement rate.

2. Keeping Your Cool: A Guide to Stressless Comment Management

   You care about your audience, and their feedback matters. But when those comments hit a nerve, it can be hard not to take them personally. Take a deep breath, dearest socialite, and remember that not all criticism is valid. Stay true to your vision and focus on constructive feedback that can actually help you improve - ignore the rest. There are block and delete buttons for a reason. Use that shit.

3. When Virality Goes Awry: Dealing with the Wrong Audience

   So, your post skyrocketed to viral stardom. The likes, saves, shares, and comments are pouring in. But wait, something seems off. Suddenly, your content is reaching an unintended or downright incompatible audience. Yikes! Take a step back and reassess the situation. Use this as an opportunity to engage with your newfound audience, educate them about your message, or pivot your content strategy to cater to your core supporters. Again let’s revisit that reminder about the block and delete buttons…

4. The Silent Majority: Beyond Engagement Lies True Success

   Ah, the elusive comment section. Remember that the number of comments doesn't define the success of your post. Plenty of people out there enjoy and resonate with your content without feeling the need to comment. Don't let the silence discourage you. Keep track of other metrics like reach, engagement, and the connections you make. True success lies in the impact you create, regardless of the comment count.

What You Can Do About it:

1. Blocking and Deleting Comments as needed:

   In the wild jungle of viral content, you may encounter comments that are not just unhelpful but downright toxic. Fear not, for you hold the power of the delete button! Don't hesitate to block or remove comments that cross the line, as it's crucial to maintain a positive and safe space for your community. Remember, your mental well-being matters too.

2. Setting Personal Boundaries: When to Check Comments and Rankings

   When you're caught in the whirlwind of viral fame, it's essential to establish personal boundaries. Decide when and how often you'll check comments and rankings. Constantly refreshing your notifications can be overwhelming and distracting and suck you down a vortex of an unhealthy internet black hole where you suddenly look up and your Thursday morning has turned into Friday afternoon and your thumb now requires a brace to nurse the sprain of constant swiping. Find a balance that allows you to engage with your audience while still maintaining your sanity. Remember, taking breaks from the viral chaos is a form of self-care (necessary self care).

3. Maintain Perspective

   This is a second reminder that words are just words. If negativity and downright rudeness are infiltrating the comments section and you just can’t shake it, take time to intentionally focus on some self care and affirmation work. And put the device down (after deleting as necessary like we mentioned before). Seriously, it’s easier said than done to let words roll off your back, but when you’re in the heat of the moment those words can hurt and you need to be proactive in upholding practices that support your mental health.

4. Ask for help!

   Consult with an agency, other creators, or friends and family when you start to feel like the online feedback is getting a little too hard to shut out yourself. No one expects you to go it alone.

So, Going viral on social media may seem like a glamorous escapade, but it comes with its fair share of challenges.

• When the dickheads and Karens strike (and they will strike), stay resilient.

• When comments get personal, focus on constructive criticism.

• When the wrong audience storms in, adapt and conquer.

• Block and delete as necessary, and set personal boundaries to maintain your well-being.

• Remember, success extends far beyond comments; it's about the big picture; connections you make, new insight gained to recreate this in the future, and the difference you bring to the virtual world (and your clients lives).

So, strap in, social mavens. We’re not chronically online for nothing - get posting.

Disclaimer: No internet trolls were harmed in the making of this blog post. Well, maybe just a tiny bit of their pride.