Just wanted to say I really resonated with your post about needing to feel smart. I know for me it’s definitely cause of how “”””gifted”””” I was as a kid and it’s hard to let a lot of those feelings of worthlessness without success and validation go, especially online. I don’t have much advice, other than trying to recognize the thoughts as they happen, and maybe use social media less/participate in fandoms less if it starts to feel less like fun and more like a test that you need to pass. Maybe try finding hobbies or activities that have no level of success that you have to beat so that they can just be neutral in your mind and use those as practice. You don’t have to respond to this (especially if it’s unhelpful) I just wanted to let you know you’re definitely not alone and offer my own two cents. You don’t need to be the smartest or the best to deserve good things. Idk. This is all over the place. I got a bad critique earlier this week so I guess your post just hit me hard and I had to say something. Hope you have a nice night and give yourself some peace.
this is a really beautiful response, thank you for putting in the time to send it <3 negative critiques always hit me so so hard too, there is something so very utterly damaging to the whole "gifted" thing, I'm totally in the same boat. i dont have anything clever or coherent to say in response but I do really appreciate the support/solidarity, sending love and peace your way as well <3
