Claps On Medium Are Like The Windows Into The Soul

A modern-day Freudian slip

This isn’t another plea for Medium writers to shower every writer on the platform with claps. I’m saying what’s on everyone’s mind but what we’re too afraid to say.

The claps we give to support Medium writers reveal more about us than we might think. They’re like the windows into the soul.

This isn’t a perfect science. I may also be reading between the lines. But in small actions, bigger themes are found. Use me, for example.

The “Single-Digit” Clappers

I once ruled Medium as a “one-clap” king.

Last year, I had a meager following and several crappy articles published. I still thought my writing was the best. To receive very few clicks and claps was a massive blow to my ego.

After that, while scrolling through the Medium homepage, my idea of payback was leaving “one clap for all.” I was projecting my insecurities. I had a chip on my shoulder.

If I get no claps, why should I give any?

Sometimes, even if I liked an article, I’d only give a handful of claps.

True, only a few are as conceited as me. Most are too lazy, apathetic, or attention-deficit to press the clap button long enough. Some withhold claps because they crave feeling in control. Either way, if we’re not maxing out on giving claps for an article we like (or close to it), aren’t we all a little guilty of playing the same game, except to a lesser extent?

You either like something or don’t.

Even if it’s as simple as a title, idea, or a turn of phrase that catches your eye. It means the writer is doing their job. They’re getting through to you.

No matter how small — it counts.

We live in dire times. Human connection is scarce. We can’t jeopardize it, not now. Not with the current mess our planet is in. I’m not trying to turn this into a “Kumbaya” moment.

But someone needs to keep the torch lit. Yes, it’s your life.

I just don’t see how pushing a button for a few extra seconds is a burden.