I would stare too 🤷🏿‍♂️

Hey everyone! Following up on my thoughts about filming in public and those inevitable stares, I wanted to dive a little deeper because I know it’s a big hurdle for many aspiring creators. It’s one thing to say 'don’t care,' but it’s another to truly understand why people stare and how to genuinely feel comfortable in your own skin while creating. Let's be real, when you're creating content in public, you're essentially becoming a temporary spectacle. And trust me, it triggers something primal in people. Why do people stare? It's often not malicious, even though it can feel that way. First, there's curiosity. You're doing something unusual. Most people are just going about their day, perhaps in a bit of a daze. When something out of the ordinary happens – like someone talking to a camera – it breaks their routine. Their eyes naturally, almost instinctively, go to the source of novelty. Think about it: if you saw someone doing something unique, wouldn't you glance over? That's what I mean by 'they're supposed to stare.' It’s a natural human reaction to the unexpected. Then there's fascination or confusion. Some people might be genuinely interested in what you're doing. They might wonder if you're a celebrity, a reporter, or simply trying to figure out the context of your actions. It's like watching a street performer – you're drawn in, even if just for a moment. This isn't a negative stare; it's an observational one. Sometimes, it's just a vacant stare. People are lost in thought, looking in your direction but not really seeing you. Their eyes might be fixed, but their minds are miles away. This is less about you and more about their internal world. Learning to differentiate this from a direct, scrutinizing gaze can be really freeing. What about coping strategies beyond just 'not caring'? While building that thick skin is crucial, here are some things I've found helpful: Own your space: When you start filming, project confidence through your body language. Stand tall, make intentional movements. If you act like you belong there, others are more likely to accept it too. Focus on your craft: Immerse yourself in what you're doing. The more you concentrate on your content, your message, or your performance, the less bandwidth you'll have to worry about external distractions. Put on some music in your headphones if it helps you get into your zone! Pre-visualization: Before you even hit record, mentally prepare yourself. Acknowledge that stares will happen. Say to yourself, "Okay, people will look, and that's fine. I'm here to create." This mental rehearsal can significantly reduce anxiety. Acknowledge, then move on: Sometimes, a quick, polite smile or a brief eye contact can diffuse an awkward stare. It acknowledges their presence without inviting further interaction, then you can return your focus to your filming. Choose your spots wisely (initially): If you're just starting out, pick less crowded locations or times to build your comfort level. As your confidence grows, you can venture into busier areas. Remember, every creator you admire once started at zero, likely feeling just as self-conscious. This journey of creating content in public isn't just about making videos; it's about personal growth, learning resilience, and building confidence. Embrace the process, embrace the stares, and let your unique perspective shine through!