For me, joining the furry fandom has had a huge impact on my life in a good way. I learned that it’s okay if I’m different or “cringe” as long as what I’m doing is making me happy. I no longer need validation from others that what I’m doing is okay because I now realize that those types of people needlessly bully individuals who do stuff that doesn’t match their definition of “based”. I feel more confident in talking to other people which led me to becoming friends with the best person I’ve ever met who is now my partner.
I’m curious to know your story about joining the fandom and how it has impacted you so I can get to know this community better.
It’s all early days, but it’s been for the better. Shedding self hatred and cognitive dissonance is probably a good thing.
Like you say, trying to get validation from a bunch of people who definitely don’t have your best interest in mind, don’t actually have a clue what the hell they’re talking about and barely know how to run their own lives is unhealthy. Especially when you find out they’re actually 14 years old. Doy