Reader’s Question:
I’m reaching out to those who have never experienced or have overcome feelings of being uncomfortable with fellow fans. I’ve recently started supporting a character from a specific anime, and this is my first time having a favorite character since I’ve never really been into idols or anime before.
I enjoy collecting merchandise and spend about half of my part-time job earnings on my fandom activities. Until now, when I saw posts from other fans who liked the same character, I thought, “Wow, we share the same favorite!” or “They really love this character.” However, recently, I’ve started feeling a bit of jealousy. I find myself thinking, “Do I need to support them as much as they do?” or “Even though this character is not very popular, I should collect more merchandise…” I feel ashamed of these thoughts. Even though I’m on the verge of feeling uncomfortable with fellow fans, I can’t help but feel uneasy when I see people on TikTok saying things like, “I support ○○kun in my own way, even though I don’t want to share him with others,” or using audio clips about rejecting fellow fans. I know not everyone chooses to feel this way, but it still makes me uncomfortable. How can I avoid feeling this way about fellow fans and continue to enjoy this anime?
Understanding the Fandom Experience
Hey there! I just read your heartfelt question about feeling uncomfortable with fellow fans, and I couldn’t help but relate it to my own experiences in the fandom world. It’s interesting how our passions can sometimes lead us down unexpected emotional paths, isn’t it? When I first dove into my favorite anime, I remember the excitement of connecting with others who loved the same characters. I can still picture the moment I bought my first piece of merchandise—a quirky little figure that now sits proudly on my desk. But, like you, I’ve also experienced those pangs of jealousy when I saw others showcasing their extensive collections. It’s a strange feeling, realizing that your appreciation can sometimes morph into competition.
Finding Common Ground
Your feelings of unease when witnessing statements like “I support ○○kun in my own way” are completely valid. It’s tough when it feels like others are staking their claim, almost as if there’s a measuring stick for fandom loyalty. But here’s the thing: fandom should be a space for sharing joy, not comparison. I think back to a time when I was at a convention, and I struck up a conversation with a fellow fan. We bonded over our shared love for a character, and it felt liberating to share our different takes without any judgment. Those moments remind us that there’s no wrong way to express our fandom.
Embracing Your Unique Journey
I appreciate the thought you mentioned about potentially watching new anime to ease those feelings. Sometimes, diversifying our interests can help us appreciate what we love without the pressure of competition. I had a similar experience where I found a new series that captivated me, allowing me to enjoy my original fandom without the weight of comparisons. And let’s be honest, the thrill of hunting for merchandise can be a fun adventure in itself! I remember one afternoon, I arrived at a local anime shop way too early, practically bouncing with excitement. As I stood there munching on snacks, I chatted with the staff about upcoming releases, and it turned into a delightful experience. Those little interactions made the wait worth it and reminded me that it’s about the journey, not just the destination.
Creating Your Own Space
Ultimately, it’s important to cultivate a space where you can enjoy your fandom free from pressure. Your passion for the character is valid, and you don’t have to measure it against anyone else’s. Remember, just because someone else collects more doesn’t diminish your love for ○○kun. As you continue to navigate your feelings, I invite you to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments. Have you ever felt this way about your interests? How did you cope? Let’s support each other in finding joy in our unique fandom journeys!
