Niharika NM, a 26-year-old social media sensation and the newest cast member on Netflix’s “Big Mouth,” recently graced the stage at the Sharjah International Book Fair.
Renowned for her humorous sketches and rant videos, Niharika has amassed millions of followers, delivering laughter and relatable content. In a candid conversation after her session, Niharika delved into her journey, early experiences with comedy, and the pivotal decision to pursue a full-time career as a content creator.
Early Beginnings and Coping with Comedy:
Niharika’s foray into humor started as a defense mechanism during her childhood. She humorously addressed her weight through self-deprecating jokes, aiming to disarm others and fit in with peers. However, her comedic evolution led to a broader perspective, finding humor in various aspects without resorting to self-deprecation.
Handling Trolls and Building Resilience:
Growing up in the online realm exposed Niharika to criticism and negativity. Initially, negative comments affected her, but as she matured, she learned not to internalize them. She stressed the importance of recognizing that online opinions, especially from anonymous users, aren’t factual judgments of individuals but reactions to content.
Transition to Full-Time Content Creation:
Niharika lacked a predefined roadmap for content creation and had to navigate the landscape independently. In a transformative decision last year, she opted for a full-time content creator career, turning down her dream job at Google. This marked a pivotal moment as she fully embraced content creation as her professional path.
Balancing Passion and Practicality:
Acknowledging the benefits of stable 9-5 jobs, Niharika emphasized the financial security they provide. While encouraging aspiring content creators to pursue their passion, she underscored the importance of practicality. Being passionate yet financially stable prevents dissatisfaction, advocating for a balanced approach to professional pursuits.
Cracking the Algorithm:
In the realm of social media, Niharika shared valuable insights on algorithm dynamics. She advised against working for the algorithm, encouraging creators to let the algorithm work for them. Rather than blindly following trends, she urged creators to set authentic trends. Authenticity, she emphasized, is the key to genuine engagement and sustained growth.
Niharika NM’s journey unfolds as a narrative of comedic evolution, resilience against online criticism, and a bold career choice. Her insights provide a roadmap for aspiring content creators, emphasizing the delicate balance between passion and practicality and the significance of authenticity in navigating the dynamic world of social media.