How to Deal With Online Criticism

If you’re looking for inspiration to get you through the day, there’s no better place than the comments section on your favorite social media platform.

We joke, of course. Still, many of us keep going down those online rabbit holes to find validation.

But it’s a mean, depressing world in the digital sphere. Many people adopt alter egos to write things they would never say face-to-face.

Maybe you’ve been on the receiving end of hurtful online comments. If so, here are some ways to handle them.

When you read such comments, stop and take a deep breath. Remember that even if the comment is unfair, you are an imperfect person in need of healing. Offer the hurt to God in satisfaction for your sins.

A comment may point out a real flaw in you. Maybe you do come off as haughty or mean online and other commenters are calling you out on it.

In these cases, reflect on how you present yourself online.

2. Crack a joke.
Joking is a great way to practice humility. It also works against those mean commenters who relish in your pain.

Don’t give them what they want. Turn it around and crack a joke. Many times, this will silence them, or at least undermine their credibility.

3. Pray for those who mock you.
It’s easy to read a mean comment and immediately start thinking hateful things about the author. This reaction is just as bad as their action, so stop this behavior.

Charity demands that you pray for everyone — including your enemies. Offer them up to God in prayer, however tough it seems. It’s what we’re called to do as Christians.

4. Block the offenders.
Charity demands that you love everyone, even those who offend you. But this doesn’t mean you have to continually put up with people.

Consider giving someone another chance if they post one mean comment. If you’re comfortable and know them personally, send them a message asking them to stop. But if they keep doing it, there’s nothing wrong with blocking them.

Remember that you are God’s child and made in His image. Remember that Christ died for all, even people you can’t stand.

Worry less about what others say online and more about how you conduct yourself. Don’t sacrifice holiness, peace, and joy to score some cheap points against an online bully.