Fame’s hidden toll on privacy

March 29, 2024

Ever had that moment where someone recognizes you from a distance and you feel like a mini-celebrity? It’s a rush, right? Now imagine that happening every single day.

I just caught a snippet of an interview with Eric Weinstein and Chris Williamson, and it got me thinking about the price of fame. Eric shared how recognition has reshaped his life and career, shedding light on aspects of fame we often overlook.

Years ago, I made a video on how to become rich and famous on YouTube. It was my take on climbing the social ladder, a guide to gaining followers and monetizing them. It’s an old video now, a relic of my early days trying to figure out the YouTube game.

Fast-forward to today, I’ve tasted a hint of fame myself. I remember walking through San Diego when someone recognized me from my videos. We had lunch, I introduced him to some industry folks—it was an unforgettable experience. But it also felt like an invasion of my privacy.

That’s just a tiny glimpse into fame. For folks like Eric Weinstein, Chris Williamson, or Joe Rogan, privacy becomes a luxury they can’t afford. Fame means you’re on, all the time, with no off switch. People think they know you because they’ve watched your content, not realizing the relationship is one-sided.

The question is, are you ready for that? Are you prepared to sacrifice your privacy, to always be on for your audience? Not everyone is cut out for that life.

There’s someone famous who moved into our neighborhood, and they’re almost reclusive, a contrast to the public persona fame demands. It’s a testament to how differently people cope with recognition.

If you’re thinking about building a profile, really consider if you’re willing to embrace all that comes with fame. A book I’m currently enjoying, Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon, touches on this idea. It suggests using your time in obscurity to create without the weight of public opinion. It’s invaluable advice for anyone seeking to make a mark.

So, check out that interview segment with Eric if you’re curious about the nuances of fame. And if you’re working on building your own platform, think about how you’ll handle success when it arrives. Dive into books like Steal Like an Artist and Show Your Work! to fuel your creative journey.

Got thoughts on fame or creativity? Drop a comment wherever you’re watching this. And I’ll catch you in my next video. Take care!

Gideon Shalwick

@gideonshalwick

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