Is It Possible for Being Genuine Online to Backfire? Insights from Meagan Good’s Participation
Authenticity is frequently hailed as the ideal way to conduct oneself in public, both online and off.
However, what occurs when being honest becomes a bit too much? A broader discussion about what it means to live truly in the spotlight and whether it’s worth the expense has been spurred by the recent announcement of Meagan Good’s engagement to Jonathan Majors.
The 2022 divorce of Meagan and DeVon Franklin shocked a lot of people. They appeared to be the ideal pair—beautiful, prosperous, devout, and drama-free. Numerous readers were motivated to take a different approach to relationships and love by their book, The Wait: A Powerful Practice for Finding the Love of Your Life and the Life You Love.
However, some felt entitled to answers once their union dissolved. What went wrong? Why did they not share their love story with us in the same way that they were guiding us through their healing process?
In 2024, the public’s interest has been rekindled by her connection with Majors, an actor facing accusations and public scrutiny. People wonder about the timing and criticize her decisions. After her divorce, is this the makeover they anticipated? Given the amount of criticism her new fianc has received, why is she remaining silent?
Celebrities are not the only ones who feel entitled to someone else’s life narrative. It reflects how our borders have been changed by social media. We’ve been urged to post everything on social media sites like Instagram, TikTok, and X (previously Twitter), from our most vulnerable moments to our greatest achievements. The premise is that relatability and connection are fostered by authenticity. However, there are frequently costs associated with authenticity, such as criticism, judgment, and unsolicited counsel.
Similar scrutiny has been directed at celebrities such as Halle Bailey. Despite the fact that she and her ex-partner, DDG, continue to co-parent, there is constant speculation regarding their breakup. Halle has decided to say nothing. But that hasn’t stopped individuals from using their stories to fill in the blanks. People will believe they should have a front-row seat to everything once you allow them to enter your world, even if only little.
Conversely, many well-known people have become experts at maintaining their privacy. Jay-Z and Beyonc , Oprah and Stedman, Kerry Washington and Nnamdi Asomugha these couples protect their personal lives fiercely, sharing only what they want the world to know. They remind us that you can live authentically without living publicly.
For me, social media is largely used for work. I m not one to share every detail of my life online, and I support anyone who decides to step away from these platforms in search of peace. Sharing too much can feel empowering at the moment, but it can also invite criticism, negativity and even harassment.
Meagan s journey with Majors highlights an important truth: once you choose to make parts of your life public, you can t control how the public responds. That s the trade-off. And while celebrities might have to live with that reality, the rest of us don t have to play by the same rules.
As we navigate our own choices about what to share and what to keep private, it s important to use discernment. Not everyone in your life or online deserves full access to your story. There s power in being selective. You don t have to post every milestone, vent about every disagreement, or invite strangers into your vulnerable moments.
Instead, take a cue from the couples and individuals who prioritize their peace. You don t have to live in secrecy, but you can set boundaries that work for you. Ask yourself: Am I sharing this for me or for them? Will this bring me joy, or am I posting out of pressure to keep it real ?
Authenticity is a personal journey, not a social media strategy. If being true to yourself means sharing less, that s okay. And if you choose to share, ensure you re ready for whatever comes with it. Because at the end of the day, your peace of mind is worth more than likes, comments, or retweets.
