Tahj & Co. founder and CEO Bri Tahj joins Foli for this months conversations, to discuss the impact of social media on youth, using your voice as a writer, and parental behavior cause and effects.

Words by Foli Creppy

Bri Tahj is the chief author, publisher, journalist, and poetic mastermind behind Tahj & Co., Bri brings a unique blend of creativity and expertise to the table. With a degree in Journalism and Communications earned in 2017, she now leads her thriving publishing company, which has captivated audiences with a diverse range of publications, from T&C Magazine to the latest enchanting children's book release. 

Founded in 2021, Tahj & Co. Writing & Publishing has quickly established itself as a beacon of exemplary prose and penmanship. Bri’s journey through motherhood, combined with her deep experience in creative writing and her insightful study of the psychological effects of media on society, lends a profound depth to her work. Growing up in an internet-dominated era, she offers a nuanced perspective on how media shapes our world. 

The first question pertains to your press release: How can we protect the youth from the unsettling influence of the media? You mentioned education and virtue as solutions. From your perspective, how should society educate the youth about virtue, and what does that process entail?

BT: From my perspective, educating the youth on virtue begins at home with adults setting the example. We must lead by demonstrating responsible media usage and controlling what children are exposed to. To raise virtuous children, adults must embody patience, kindness, charity, and purity. Children imitate what they observe, so if we consistently display these values, they will naturally adopt them. Therefore, adults must take the initiative to be leaders and role models in fostering these virtues.

I agree with you and find the topic intriguing. However, I want to point out that, unfortunately, many adults may be resistant to change, especially as they get older. They might think, "This is how things are, and it's no longer my problem." But it is their problem because when they encounter youth who are negatively influenced by the media and perpetuate harmful stereotypes, they often wonder why no one is addressing the issue. The truth is, that change starts with each individual.

Adults must take responsibility instead of passing the problem to future generations. If the youth lack the necessary tools and guidance, how can we expect them to address these issues? They will not learn unless we, as a collective, take the initiative to teach and guide them. It cannot be the responsibility of a few; significant change requires the majority of adults to be proactive in providing the youth with the tools and support they need. This collective effort ensures that the next generation is well-prepared and capable of enacting positive change.

BT: To me, virtue is synonymous with merit. I believe everyone inherently knows right from wrong, as children are born pure and not inherently bad. As they grow, they learn from their surroundings. The concept of right versus wrong is ingrained in all of us, but our actions depend on our choices. For children to make the right choices, they need to see adults modeling those choices.

Wombanhood

TAHJ & CO.

While children are highly impressionable, some seem irredeemable despite being shown goodness. This often results from a series of small, poor decisions that accumulate over time, creating a deeply ingrained mindset. Although I hesitate to call it a point of no return, as anyone can change their life at any stage, these children may reach a stage where they know nothing but negative behavior. Consequently, they might not recognize their actions as wrong or feel remorseful. They become accustomed to negativity, sometimes even perceiving it as positive or simply resigning themselves to their circumstances. This mindset becomes so entrenched that they metaphorically throw up their hands, accepting their situation and feeling compelled to continue down the same path.

BT: I believe that children require guidance, which is paramount, and we need to approach our guidance of them with greater intentionality.

Certainly. You mentioned in your press release the detrimental impact of an ego-driven relationship between society and the media, which has contributed to a mental health crisis and tarnished media platforms originally intended for creativity, collaboration, and free expression. Could you elaborate on who or what you believe is responsible for fostering this ego-driven divide within society?

BT: Collectively, I believe we have all played a role in fostering this ego-driven society, particularly through our interactions on social media. Initially, social media offered a new and enjoyable way to connect and socialize online. However, as it evolved, it morphed into a platform where competition thrives, often emphasizing superficial appearances and comparisons. Many individuals now wear metaphorical masks online, projecting an idealized version of themselves that may not reflect their true identities. This phenomenon, I think, stems partly from a herd mentality fueled by social media, where people sometimes echo popular opinions without genuine conviction. Moreover, there's a pervasive pressure to maintain a flawless facade, creating an illusion of perfection and superiority over others' lives.

I believe that at some point, most of us have succumbed to these pressures, even if not consistently or currently. Social media has a powerful influence in shaping our behaviors and perceptions, sometimes encouraging us to conform to societal norms or portray ourselves in a certain light. This shift has contributed to a culture where authenticity can be overshadowed by the pursuit of validation and status on digital platforms.

Certainly. I believe one of the primary issues is the tendency for content to be quickly copied and replicated across platforms. For example, when a post gains significant attention, individuals with smaller followings may duplicate it verbatim on their profiles to capitalize on its popularity. This mimetic behavior creates a ripple effect where numerous accounts echo the same content in a bid for visibility and follower growth. This phenomenon not only saturates the platform with duplicated content but also diminishes the overall quality of user experience by flooding algorithms with repetitive posts.

It seems many individuals seek fleeting moments of fame and validation on social media, aspiring to cultivate a persona of originality and influence. This desire for recognition and significance mirrors aspects of high school dynamics but on a global scale. What's concerning is that these behaviors aren't limited to younger demographics but are also observed among adults well into their 30s, 40s, and even 50s. This perpetuates a cycle where personal worth and identity are intertwined with online visibility, despite potential disparities with their offline lives.

BT: I believe, as you mentioned, that people often seek attention and traction, but attention itself can be problematic and even detrimental. Many individuals become fixated on gaining attention, sometimes behaving in ways that are influenced by the number of followers or likes they receive on platforms like Instagram, where images dominate. This attention can lead them to perceive themselves as superior or justify mistreating others, creating a sense of entitlement based solely on social media metrics. It's intriguing to observe how social media interactions can profoundly influence behavior and self-perception.

TRBLESHOOTER 7: THE CHOSEN

TAHJ & CO.

It reminds me of something I saw a while ago involving a social media influencer who boasted millions of followers but struggled financially because he couldn't monetize his audience. Despite perceptions of a lavish lifestyle, he was barely making ends meet. People admired him based on his online presence without realizing the stark contrast to his real-life situation. This serves as a poignant reminder that social media fame alone doesn't translate to financial stability or fulfillment. It's akin to owning a Ferrari without an engine—impressive on the surface, but ultimately lacking substance or practical value.

BT: I often reflect on this question: What is the true substance behind content creators and influencers? While I don't frequently vocalize these thoughts to avoid being perceived negatively, I wonder about the actual impact of their content. Being a content creator or influencer entails more than just posting pictures or videos of daily activities like dining out or shopping. It should involve creating meaningful, enduring content that positively influences others. Today, many individuals engage in superficial posting without considering the long-term value or impact of their content. Simply labeling oneself as a content creator or influencer holds little weight if the content lacks depth or fails to genuinely influence others in a meaningful way.

Absolutely. The term "influencer" is peculiar because it raises questions about who exactly is being influenced and in what meaningful way. Many who claim this title might overestimate their impact simply based on their follower count or engagement levels.
BT: Yeah, literally.

It's remarkable. I find it intriguing that when I post content, whether it's my thoughts or personal activities, my approach stems from two primary motives. Firstly, as someone with a background in photography, having studied and honed my skills in this discipline, my content is crafted with a purpose. It's about documenting my life's journey through visuals, capturing moments that reflect my growth and experiences over time. Secondly, I leverage social media not merely for personal expression but also to foster meaningful interactions and connections with like-minded individuals. It serves as a platform to engage in discussions and build relationships. The term 'influencer' often carries a connotation that I find perplexing. While some embrace the label due to their follower count or engagement metrics, true influence should arise organically. It's about inadvertently inspiring others through genuine expression rather than striving for influencer status. I intend to share my passions and insights authentically, with any influence being a byproduct of that sincerity.

BT: Indeed, you're correct in your observation. In today's digital landscape, there's an undeniable trend where individuals, particularly the younger generation, and even those of my age bracket, gravitate towards chasing trends and seeking viral fame. The allure of instant gratification has overshadowed the value of long-term commitment and craftsmanship in art. My creative endeavors, be it writing books or embarking on new projects, are born out of spontaneous inspiration rather than meticulous planning. However, the fast-paced nature of media has diminished our capacity for sustained effort and profound creativity. There's a pervasive desire for immediate success and recognition, often at the expense of genuine artistic integrity and thoughtful expression.

It's disheartening to witness a lack of dedication to mastery in our society. Many individuals, driven by a desire for quick financial gains, neglect the importance of deep, immersive learning and skill development. The prevailing mentality prioritizes shortcuts and instant monetary rewards over genuine expertise and enduring success. On platforms like YouTube and elsewhere on social media, there's a prevalent trend of seeking rapid financial success through quick-fix methods, exemplified by videos promising substantial earnings within short periods. While such achievements may appear impressive initially, true merit lies in consistent, sustainable growth and profitability over time. Long-term financial stability and professional achievement stem from continuous refinement and perseverance, not fleeting moments of monetary gain akin to gambling wins. Aspiring to maintain and increase earnings consistently over extended periods, with incremental growth and deliberate strategy, embodies genuine accomplishment and mastery worth emulating.

BT: Yes, I agree. It seems that nowadays, people no longer aspire as they once did. Creativity and imagination are what ignite aspirations. You're only driven to aspire when you're genuinely inspired or passionate about something. Unfortunately, many seem to lack clear goals or aspirations because they lack true passion for what they do. Instead, they go through the motions without deeper intent. Therefore, it's crucial, as we've discussed, to infuse more intention into our pursuits.

Absolutely. Building on your point, we live in a generation expecting instant results without the discipline of consistency. Passion is important, but consistency surpasses it. You don't need to give 100% effort every day or even every other day. Instead, commit to a manageable 5% or 10% daily effort over the next month, then repeat this for the following months. Over a year, this consistent effort will yield more growth than sporadic bursts of intense activity. For example, if you aim to build physical strength, start small with five push-ups daily for 30 days, then gradually increase. Eventually, this steady progress allows for the addition of weights and more complex exercises, leading to sustained improvement and achievement of larger goals. Moving on to the next question, what are your long-term aspirations for media and society's approach to promoting beneficial mental health practices?

BT: I hope to foster a balanced approach. I believe much of today's mental health crisis stems from excessive comparison online. While media can be beneficial for information and social connections, its constant consumption often leads to measuring our worth by likes, attention, or comparing ourselves to others daily. Therefore, my greatest aspiration is that we find a healthy equilibrium. Achieving this balance is complex, and I'm unsure of the exact path forward. However, initiating open dialogues and creating art that addresses these issues, like my book or other forms of expression, can be powerful catalysts. Art has the potential to captivate attention and provoke introspection. Ultimately, I hope we can collectively navigate towards this balance.

I'd like to add to your point that as human beings, another crucial step is cultivating self-love. This concept varies for each individual, but once we define what self-love means personally and consistently practice self-compassion, it allows us to discover ourselves through life experiences or artistic mediums. Finding this self-love enables us to authentically engage with social media, rather than adopting personas. While it's valid to adopt roles akin to actors for online presence, it should remain a tool rather than defining our entire lives. As an adult, do you feel there's more at stake in terms of how you present yourself on social media and in the broader world compared to your childhood? Additionally, now that you're a parent, do you believe it's crucial to be mindful of the legacy you create for your daughter and how your actions shape public perception, both online and offline?

BRI TAHJ

BT: I wouldn't definitively say so. Perhaps subconsciously, because naturally, I want my daughter to perceive only positive aspects of me. Therefore, I'm cautious about any negative perceptions others might have regarding my actions, behaviors, or character, as I wouldn't want my daughter to inherit such impressions. However, I believe it's predominantly influenced by the media. In my younger days, the media wasn't a concern. I grew up during the internet age, but I wasn't heavily involved in social media like MySpace, for instance. As a child, I spent my time playing outside with friends, reading books, watching TV, and writing stories or journals. Social media wasn't a significant part of my life then, and although it's pervasive now across all age groups, especially among adults who have more autonomy, we must self-monitor in this digital era. Social media has become integral, and at times, I feel conflicted when people misinterpret my posts or statements, regardless of whether they're photos or thoughts. It bothers me when I'm unfairly judged or labeled in ways that don't reflect who I truly am. So yes, it's an intriguing and somewhat perplexing aspect of life.

Imagine being transported to an island where foreign languages surround you, possessing no money or means of transport, clad only in the clothes on your back. Presented with three unique abilities—translating any spoken language into English, generating infinite currency, or a mysterious ability with guaranteed future value—which option would you choose?

BT: I would choose the ability to translate any language. As a writer, there's nothing more valuable to me than language. Language fosters connections, and connections foster intercultural fluency. With fluency across cultures, one can achieve almost anything, accessing opportunities and building meaningful connections.

When you hear the term effective collaboration, what does that mean to you and your artistic mediums?

BT: To me, effective collaboration means everyone shares a unified vision. Each person brings unique strengths and perspectives that enhance the shared goal. It requires open, transparent communication where feedback is honest and constructive. Effective collaboration ensures that all parties align on what works, what doesn't, and how to achieve the collective vision.

Great advice. And the last question that I have is, you're approached by someone who wants to give you $5 million to fund your business before they give you the money. It comes with one stipulation, you need to give an elevator pitch selling the brand of Taj and what the definition of Taj is.

BT: Certainly. Taj is a versatile creative force committed to not only reflecting but also challenging contemporary times. We foster community within urban literary and artistic spheres with a gentle yet impactful presence, akin to a cool breeze. Our voices embody the essence of cultural necessity, offering enduring freedom of expression.

That was beautifully articulated. Your words flow effortlessly and resonate deeply. There's a musicality and poetry in your expression that's truly captivating. It's refreshing to encounter such intentional and passionate communication.

BT: Thank you. I see it as simply using my voice as a writer, expressing myself authentically through deliberate and meaningful words.

Having a distinctive voice as a writer is indeed about embracing and consistently refining your unique style. It's clear from our conversation that staying true to your voice and vision is paramount.

BT: Absolutely, staying consistent and true to one's voice is crucial in any creative pursuit. Thank you once again, for the insightful questions and the opportunity to share my thoughts.

Pre-orders for TRBLESHOOTERS 7: THE CHOSEN will be available on July 7th, from Tahj & Co’s Online Shop and follow the brand on social media. As part of the book launch, there will be a curated youth event hosted by Bri Tahj and Pendotta, on July 31 at Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park in Rochester New York

Foli Creppy is a contributor to our lifestyle column in New York. More about Foli Creppy

July 09, 2024 

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