10 Reasons Why TikTok is More Than Just an App
In 2020, I decided on a whim to try TikTok out when I was bored in the house during the pandemic watching Tiger King. I am a marketer by trade, so I am always wanting to stay up-to-date on trends especially in the digital space. I felt old and a little silly getting on an app that I thought would be full of dancing videos and was not for someone born in the 1900’s. Little did I know how much value this app would add to my day-to-day life.
Here are my top 10 reasons why TikTok is more than just an app!
Different perspectives: TikTok gives me a window into different points of view that I would not have easily had access to before downloading this app. It is easy to live in an echo chamber and surround yourself with others who think similarly. From an anthropological perspective, you can learn from all walks of life at your fingertips.
Access to Experts! Interested in a new hobby, history, science, or interior design? There are experts in whatever topic sparks your interest. TikTok takes away barriers to knowledge. It is fascinating how much you can learn from experts speaking candidly about what they know. When my one month old baby contracted RSV, I was able to access videos of what labored breathing looks like in infants. Doctors and nurses shared their insight in a visual way that helped us to know when to go to the hospital.
Social Justice and Change: TikTok allows people to connect with change makers and easily find the helpers during really challenging times.
Short Form Video Tutorials: YouTube absolutely has its place, but there is nothing like the short-form videos when trying to come up with a solution or hack in a pinch.
Small Business Owners Have Thrived! One of our own artisans, Colette Bernard, became TikTok famous for her quirky, career themed claw clips. She made a giant tooth that the dental industry girlies went crazy for. Now, she has over 660,000 followers all from creating really interesting accessories and selling many accessories on TikTok.
Cutting Down Barriers: The everyday person has the opportunity to have their voice heard. Someone who is really funny, smart, or interesting can win the social media lottery and “go viral.” How cool is that?
Documenting World Events: Hurricane Helene survivors documented their stories and were able to share their lived experience with the world. It was heart wrenching, but a reminder of ways that we can give back to fellow Americans going through hard times.
Hyperfixation At Its Finest: After I read a really good book, there is nothing more fun than connecting with others who are just as obsessed as I am.
Creativity: It is a joy to watch how creative people can be! Some of my favorite creators have whole mini-episodes where they are playing various characters. If you are not on the Paloma Diamond or Shawnaverse side of TikTok, what are you even doing with your life?
It’s Fun! There are countless problems that are bigger than one person can fix, but TikTok can bring so much simple pleasure and joy.
I know that there are lots of opinions on the pros and cons of TikTok, but overall I am so grateful for downloading this silly little app that has helped me learn, laugh, question, cry, and grow as a person!
