Applause in Disguise

Applause in Disguise

They say not everyone will clap when you succeed. Some people, bless their hearts, will do the equivalent of clapping with their hands in their pockets. You know the type—they throw out comments that sound like compliments if you squint hard enough but carry just enough spice to make you go, "Wait, was that shade?"

But here’s the thing: even a backhanded comment is still applause in disguise. It means they noticed you. It means you’re doing something that stirs a reaction. And isn’t that the point? To leave a mark, to make waves, even if someone else insists on being a grumpy little raft in your ocean of awesome.

I’ve decided to stop wasting energy trying to convert the lukewarm crowd into a cheering section. If someone wants to sit on the sidelines, offering their unsolicited critiques like they’re an unpaid Yelp reviewer for my life, that’s their prerogative. Meanwhile, I’ll be over here doing my thing, turning their side-eye into spotlight fuel.

Because here’s the truth: the louder you shine, the harder it is to ignore. And sure, some people might throw shade—but shade is just another way of telling you you’re standing in the sun.

So let them talk, let them grumble. Let them get all clever with their passive-aggressive zingers. Every word, every sideways glance, every underhanded remark? That’s proof you’re on their radar. And being on someone’s radar means you’re doing something worth noticing.

So, to the clappers, the pocket-clappers, and the shade-throwers turned accidental hype squad: thank you. Your energy is appreciated—however it comes.

Now, excuse me while I get back to being unapologetically me. 🌟