avatarLucy Dan 蛋小姐 (she/her/她)

Summary

The article discusses the importance of self-care for activists, emphasizing the need to disengage from unproductive conversations and focus on those willing to listen and support the cause.

Abstract

The concept of activist self-care is explored, suggesting that it is sometimes necessary to step away from discussions with individuals who are not open to alternate perspectives. The author, Lucy (The Egg Girl), argues that engaging in such conversations can be counterproductive and detrimental to one's mental health. Instead, the focus should be on creating spaces for learning and growth for those who are ready and willing to participate. The article emphasizes the strategic choice of conserving energy for more receptive audiences, likening the act of presenting an alternate view to planting a seed that can be nurtured in due time. The author also shares personal updates and points readers to additional works that delve into related themes of growth, boundary-setting, and self-acceptance.

Opinions

  • The author believes it is futile to engage with someone who is not ready to consider an alternate perspective.
  • Engaging in unproductive conversations is seen as detrimental to the activist's mental health and counterproductive to the cause.
  • The author advocates for focusing energy on those who are willing to listen and support the cause, thereby creating a more inclusive and diverse space.
  • The act of presenting an alternate view is likened to planting a seed, suggesting that the impact of the conversation may not be immediate but has the potential to influence later on.
  • The author values the importance of self-care and setting boundaries, as evidenced by their decision to move on from unproductive engagements.
  • Lucy (The Egg Girl) is currently engaged in writing shorter poetry while completing her comprehensive exams, indicating a personal commitment to creativity and self-expression despite a demanding schedule.

Activist self-care

Photo by Daniel Öberg on Unsplash

It sounds passive-aggressive but I truly mean it.

If you’re not ready to hear the alternate perspective — I move on.

There are two reasons.

One, I find it counterproductive to offer new information when the manner in which the information is being received will cement the alternate view.

Two, you cannot change people who are unwilling to participate. You can only create a space in which someone can be invited to learn more, when they are ready.

I move on for my own mental health, to focus my energy on others who are willing to listen, who will support and amplify the cause, creating a bigger, more diverse space for others to step into.

I move on because what I’ve done is plant a seed, to which someone can return to, to nurture, to grow, to learn.

Lucy (The Egg Girl) is a BIPOC writer who seems to be writing more bite-sized poetry these days as she finishes up her written comprehensive exams (6 more days!, I’m hanging in there).

A poem about criticism, and learning how to take it:

A fresher look at something so ordinary:

Activism
Bipoc
Poetry
Growth
Mental Health
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