Is Going Viral Really Worth the Risk?

I used to wonder why some people choose to record videos or take pictures when someone is hurt and desperately needs help instead of putting their phones away and helping.

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As time went on, I realized that, for some, it is because they are chasing content that can make them go viral. And what attracts attention faster than a fresh tragedy? One post brings sympathy from some people, criticism from others, and endless arguments in the comments. Whether the comments are positive or negative, they all increase engagement.

Then I started asking myself another question: Why do people want to go viral so badly?

For some, the answer is money.

Some platforms pay creators with high engagement, although this is limited to certain countries. Others hope that once they become popular, brands will begin paying them to promote products and businesses.

We see some ladies posting almost half-naked content because they know it attracts attention. Sadly, it often works. Many people praise their appearance, the posts spread quickly, and in some cases, they end up getting endorsement deals. That success story is what many others are chasing.

But for every person who becomes successful that way, there are many more who gain nothing except backlash, ridicule, and actions they later regret.

I am in no position to judge anyone because money can push people to do things they never imagined. Sometimes it is not even greed. Sometimes it is hunger, survival, or the desire to meet basic needs.
I remember something I did about nine years ago.

There was a challenge on Steemit where participants had to drink two bottles of beer within three minutes for a cash reward. I wasn’t even a drinker, but I wanted the money badly enough to try.

I finished the two bottles in 2 minutes and 57 seconds.

Thankfully, within seconds, I vomited everything. My body simply couldn’t handle it. Looking back, I often wonder what could have happened if it hadn’t. It could have resulted in alcohol poisoning, serious health complications, or something even worse. Some people have lost their lives attempting dangerous challenges, so I am grateful mine ended differently.

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That experience made me realize something.

Many people aren’t necessarily trying to become famous for the sake of fame. They believe going viral is their shortcut to making money or changing their lives.

Then there is another group I call followers. They join every trending challenge simply because everyone else is doing it. There is no purpose behind it, no clear goal, just the fear of being left out.

For the Hive Learners question, I don’t think chasing viral fame at any cost is worth it.

The internet never forgets. The content you post today can follow you for years. Many people have watched old videos and pictures come back to affect relationships, careers, and opportunities they never imagined they would have.

The same applies to dangerous challenges. Something that earns a few minutes of attention today could leave you with lifelong health problems tomorrow.

Not everything that brings attention is worth chasing.

Sometimes, the things we do today because they seem harmless end up becoming the very things we regret tomorrow.

Just call me Burl.
I am a professional gamer, motivational speaker and a crypto enthusiast
Discord: burlarj
Twitter id: burlarj1
Telegram: burlarj
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