They say some things never change. Well, some people are no exception to that rule.
What’s this got to do with doing stupid things as an anime fan?
Why does it matter?
Let’s talk about that. And the reasoning behind why you’re only wasting your time… More often than not.
Taken from my own personal experience of course.
5 Dumb Things You Should STOP As An Anime Fan:
1. Trying to convince naysayers why anime is “good”
You can’t convince a mind that’s already made up. No different to how you can’t convince a Muslim to become a Christian.
People’s beliefs are THAT deep-rooted. Especially when it comes to the things they hate or dislike.
I’ve tried convincing people why anime is good.
I’ve even suggested what types of anime they’d like based on what I know about them, or what’s generally considered “good” by most anime fans.
It never works.
Trying to change a naysayer’s mind is hard enough as it is. But if they’re not convinced, you’d have to be stupid to even try.
2. Trying to persuade people why anime is “not for kids”
I’ve literally pointed out to some people that the paint on the wall is BLACK. and they still turn around and tell me it’s blue.
Why do people do this? Because we see things the way we want to see them.
If you’re unable to look at things objectively or accept the facts as they are without skewing it based on how you feel, then it doesn’t matter what anyone says.
While there are certainly anime made for kids, the type of content featured in anime is too deep, meaningful,
Cartoons are mostly for kids, not anime.
Trying to persuade non-believers is naive and pointless though.
3. Taking criticism to heart when someone makes fun of anime
When you grow up you’re told the world is a wonderful place.
You’re expected to believe everything is perfect. Like It’s a fun adventure filled with nice people who are kind, generous and loving towards others.
That’s how it feels to be a “normal” child.
But in reality – there are assholes who will do anything to make you feel like sh*t, and disrespect you to make themselves feel better.
The same is true for anime.
If someone criticizes you for liking anime, or tries to make you feel like a loser for being interested, don’t take it to heart.
What’s the point? It accomplishes nothing.
Their mind won’t change, and it’s not your place to try to change their mind.
Besides – it’s none of their business whether you like anime or not anyway.
4. Getting caught up in petty arguments with non-anime fans
It’s harder than it looks. Trust me I get that.
Some people, no matter what you do, will try to argue for argument’s sake, and push your “buttons” to give themselves an excuse to belittle what you love.
I can’t tell you how many times this happens online. In fact – it feels like it happens every day.
But what’s the point? There’s a saying I love that goes like this:
“Two people arguing from a far look like idiots.”
Arguing with someone who doesn’t give a damn either way, just makes you look like an idiot too. And besides – you end up gaining nothing by getting caught up in other people’s BS.
5. Seeking approval to like or “watch” anime
Religion. Culture. I don’t care what the reason is. It’s all the same anyway.
I’ve seen some fans question whether it’s “OK” to watch anime because they’re Christians, Muslims, or whatever other excuse people come up with because of social pressure.
Some fans are manipulated into believing it’s a “bad” thing to like anime ironically by the same people who hate anime, have never watched it or have NO understanding of what it is.
And I understand why people seek approval. The pressure is intense.
When almost everyone disagrees with your beliefs or interests, it’s easy to break under the pressure and give in to it.
But then you have to ask yourself – will this make me happy?
In most cases the answer is obvious.
You don’t need anyone’s approval to like anime, or to like the things that you like. Especially if you’re not doing anyone harm by being interested in it.
Highlights:
- Don’t waste your time convincing naysayers about anime.
- Don’t worry about what people think about anime.
- If people think anime is for kids, let them think that.
- Don’t get caught up in petty arguments with petty people.
- You don’t need approval to be interested in anime (or anything) you like.
The #5th point is the most important. Your happiness depends on it!
Recommended:
How To Be An Anime Protagonist In 17 Easy Steps