Love/Hate Responses
I’ve been reading Elon Musk, Elon, and David Heinemeier Hannson, DHH, more and learn that some people love them, some people hate them because of what they post.
- I find it is great they are sharing a lot of thoughts online - which is great if you love them.
- If you hate them, it is horrible they are sharing a lot of thoughts online.
The same action, different responses from others - why?
I wonder if the love/hate aspect for people that share a lot online (myself included) - comes to these things:
- Author’s Communication Style
- Reader’s Interpretation Style
Communication Style
The way an author expresses themselves has a big impact on how the receiver can interpret the message. Books like Non-violent Communication and Leadership is Language really opened my eyes to how varying language can change its impact.
Interpretation Style
The other is how the reader interprets content, especially content that is just text - devoid of most communication nuances. Mostly, is the reader interpreting the comment as if the author is speaking directly to them.
When a person interprets everything they read directed at them from the Internet, they will have a bad day.
Their Truths and Your Truths
Taking what others post online, such as people like Elon and DHH, personally can easily make you love or hate them. Remember, they are not speaking directly to you - they are being themselves.
Consider their perspective, their world, when reading content online. What they say is their truth in their world. Their truth won’t make sense in your world.
Your truth works in your world, and if what you read from others don’t work in your world, move on to the next thing.
We are living in interesting times when we can get such raw thoughts from people, even me.