Last month, I suggested we do an exercise together writing down one thing each day that you were either grateful for, what you’ve achieved and what you’ve learned. Did you do it and were you amazed at all the stuff you had done upon reflection? Sometimes we don’t realise our impact on ourselves or the world unless you mindfully focus on it. Anyway, I hope it was useful and you can continue doing that as often as you like. Imagine what 365 days of reflection would look like… 

This month I wanted to touch upon online bullying or trolling, and what I’ve learned to do to tackle that head on. This is a personal account of what I’ve experienced and what I’ve done; so if my advice helps you then fantastic. I hope it does if you experience similar. 

Rewind about 5 years ago. I was just starting out on my fluid art journey and I was exploring my creativity. I was nervous yet excited. I was curious yet shy. As time went on, I knew what art and creativity was doing for me in terms of enhancing my wellbeing and my confidence. I wanted to share what I was learning so started showcasing what I did on Facebook, Instagram and later on, set up my YouTube channel (MarkJRatcliffeArt) to teach tutorials. I was meeting so many people albeit virtually and from the outside looking in, I was doing really well. I am always so grateful for people’s support, advice, encouragement. But with anything, there are a few people who wanted to ruin that experience for me. I do mean literally a few so why is it we remember the nasty comments or the trolls that come on to only project negativity.

As time goes on, you do develop a thicker skin and negative comments or insults do now not bother me. I am human and I do have feelings and emotions. BUT… I’m not prepared for someone to make my day miserable because of a comment or remark. Does it hurt still? Yeah sometimes, of course. But what have I learned over the years above all else when it comes to these types of people… it’s this: Only people who are not happy with themselves are mean to others. That’s the sentence right there. That’s what counts and that’s what I always tell myself. It helps and I hope it helps you too. Will we eradicate these trolls or negative comments? Nope! But we can learn to act accordingly. 

Here are some of my tips that work for me: 

1. Block or delete the person and/or the comment. The easiest way to respond. 
2. If you want to react, do it with kindness. I’ve even sent them the sentence I live by highlighted above. It might not feel like you should but it will show them you’re not bothered and the universe will see you’re the bigger person. 
3. Try not to react, instead, think how much better your life is because you’re doing what you want to do no matter what your abilities are. Do these bullies deserve your time and energy? No. 
4. Accept the comment, and move on. I bet you have soooo many more lovely comments and support from the people who enjoy your work. Focus on the positive and not the negative. 

Much of this is easier said than done. Time and experience do help, but lean on those that support you, join groups of likeminded people whom share the same mindset and excitement about exploring art and creativity.

Check out Mark’s course on Smart Art Courses: Mindfully Creative: Art Techniques for the Mind, Body and Soul
www.smartartcourses/art-for-mindfulness 

Mark Ratcliffe from Mark J Ratcliffe Art: Abstract Artist & Creator; Certified Meditation Coach and
Wellbeing Practitioner.  Written in his own words @MarkJRatcliffeArt / markjratcliffeart@gmail.com