An Influencer’s Diary
Kejty dreams of internet fame, but dance lessons teach her that real success means helping people, online and in real life.
873 words / 5 min.
Dear Diary,
Today I decided to start writing a diary. My name is Katarina, but I like Kejty better. I'm 15 years old, and I have a big dream – I want to become a famous influencer! I know that sounds super cool, right? Imagine all those likes, followers, and sponsored posts. That would be amazing!
But my parents keep telling me that isn't enough. They say I need some “useful” talent or skill too. They don't understand that being an influencer IS useful! I'll be inspiring people, won't I?
Anyway, I have dance class tomorrow. I'm not especially good at it, but I enjoy it. Maybe I could be a dance influencer? Hmm, I need to think about that.
Dear Diary,
I had a tough day today. I embarrassed myself in dance class. I couldn't do a pirouette, and everyone laughed at me. I felt awful. I came home and told Mum that I was quitting dance.
But Mum surprised me. Instead of agreeing, she said something that I've been thinking about ever since. She said success doesn't come overnight, and even the best dancers once began with falls and failures. She told me that if I really want to achieve it, I have to be persistent and practise every day.
I don't know… She's right, but it's so hard!
Dear Diary,
A week has passed, and I've practised pirouettes every day. You won't believe what happened! Today, I finally managed one in class! Everyone applauded, and I felt amazing.
I wanted to post it on TikTok straight away, but then I remembered what Dad told me yesterday. He said I shouldn't focus only on becoming famous online, but also on doing something that helps people even without social media.
At first, I didn't understand, but then he gave me an example: What if I wanted to teach dance to children who don't have internet access one day? Or perform in a theatre? That wouldn't be possible without real dance skills.
I'm starting to understand that my parents might not be as “out of touch” as I thought.
Dear Diary,
Today I had a long talk with my parents about my dreams and plans. They explained why it's important to have a “Plan B”. They said the world changes quickly, and what is popular today might not be popular tomorrow.
They gave me the example of an influencer I follow. A year ago, she had millions of followers, but now that the algorithms have changed, her audience has shrunk. Luckily, she also has a fashion business, so she's still successful.
I'm starting to understand that being an influencer is great, but I can't rely on that alone. I need to develop other skills too. I've decided to keep training in dance, but I'll also learn more about choreography and maybe even teaching dance.
Dear Diary,
I can't believe what happened today! My dance teacher asked me to help younger children with their first steps. I was so nervous, but I discovered that I really enjoy it!
One little boy kept stumbling and falling, just like I did a few months ago. I helped him with his balance, and he finally managed it. His smile was so sincere and lovely – much better than any like on social media.
I think I'm beginning to understand what my parents mean about doing something useful. It feels wonderful to help someone in real life.
Dear Diary,
I had a great idea today! What if I combined my love of dance, my wish to be an influencer, and what I've learned about helping others?
I created a new social media account where I'll share simple dance tutorials for beginners. I can use what I've learned from teaching little children while building my online presence at the same time.
My parents were excited about my idea. Dad even said he'd help me record the videos. It's the first time he's been so enthusiastic about my “internet” activities!
Dear Diary,
Two months have passed since my last diary entry, and so much has changed! My dance tutorials have become quite popular. I already have more than 10,000 followers!
But even better, I received a message from a girl in a small village where she has no access to a dance school. She wrote that my videos helped her learn the basics of ballet, and now she performs at school events.
I feel amazing! Not just because I'm an “influencer”, but mainly because I'm truly helping someone.
My parents were right – it's important to have skills that can help people even without the internet. Now I know that even if I lost all my followers, I could still teach dance and do what I love.
I have a new goal – I want to become the best dancer and dance teacher I can be. And if I become popular on social media along the way, that will just be a bonus!
Thank you, Diary, for helping me understand that real success isn't just about likes and followers. It's about how we can positively affect other people's lives. I'm so grateful for my parents and their wise advice. I can't wait for all the adventures still ahead of me!
With love, Kejty
