If only you had something of value to share. 

For those Haters or Naysayers who are not ‘on stage’ with us or who take pleasure in targeting women but are not actively ‘in the arena’ as Brené Brown would say … move on!
I decided to speak to this issue because this ‘online destruction’ greatly impacts so many lovely, intelligent, and hard-working women around the world.

I am troubled by the mere thought someone would find it amusing to discount a person and be intentionally rude to women online. Please stop.

What if this happened to you, your daughter, sister, mother, or other family members or friends?

Over the past year, I have supported several women in business who were tremendously impacted by the hate they received online.
We are often encouraged to ignore the posts and not respond. But why should those words be allowed to permeate like a virus with no accountability, when it can significantly impact a women’s life or business?

Your critical stance is not welcome here. We are not interested in sharing a platform with you.

Taking pleasure in personally attacking women with your foul behavior is so wrong. Your focus should be on asking yourself how you can make a positive impact in this world rather than fixating on a women’s appearance or how she runs her business.

WE NEED TO CALL OUT HATERS & NAYSAYERS FOR THEIR DEPLORABLE ACTS!

If you offer constructive criticism to improve upon this or that … I understand your need to share feedback and I appreciate your intent.

I do, however, encourage you to be mindful of your tone or the way in which you deliver the message because it can have grave implications to many, many women.

Let’s be frank …your behavior or snide comments are so disappointing to read and remember … those words are out there for the world to see within the online abyss.

You are mistaken if you think what you deem a ‘quick-witted comment’ has no implication on your own life or business.

Believe me, people take note of your actions. Have you heard of Google, ScreenShots, and the Share Button? Your nasty comment(s) are noted and will not be forgotten … your name will circle around in an alert message very quickly.

For those of you who wish to minimize a woman’s BIG IDEA or choose to target her online to state “no shade of lipstick will help your face” or “you need highlights or extensions”; “get a nose job” or you have the audacity to tell her to shut up and get over her miscarriage or address the size or shape of her body … shame on you.

There is no space for you in the online community.

I have viewed such comments in networking groups despite “the group rules” and throughout various social platforms.

I am confused about what you get out of this.

Do you feel justified and a sense of power when you make these comments?

Do you ever reflect upon the possible damage you have done?

I firmly believe we can bring about a significant change in our world when we support one another to be the best version of ourselves and be good, loving human beings. It is that simple! And you do have the ability to change.

So, if you are challenged by hateful thoughts or desire to rant about meaningless fluff, I have a few tips for you:

• Reach out for support to talk through your need to spread hate. Unpick your desire to put others down to lift yourself up. Learn to focus on adding value rather than engaging in ugly tiffs.
• Take note of the message from the late Maya Angelou: “Hate, it has caused a lot of problems in the world but has not solved one yet.”
• Have a listen to Brené Brown’s keynote from July 25, 2019 – Why Your Critics Aren’t The Ones Who Count

I am fueled by Brené Brown’s comment “If you are not in the arena, also getting your ass kicked, I am not interested in your feedback.” Running a business is hard. Appreciate those who step up to do so!

I post this message from a place of love and respect to all women in business. To encourage you to share from your heart, to be vulnerable, and to own your worth to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Avoid the cheap seats,
Lara Taylor
Brand Story Strategist & Copywriter