TikTok often gets a bad rap. With its reputation for shallow content and privacy concerns, it’s not exactly winning awards for being the most wholesome app. Yet, I find myself scrolling through it more frequently than I’d like to admit. Here’s my take on why I still use TikTok, despite its mixed reputation.
1 It’s Full of Fun Surprises
One of the things that keeps me coming back to TikTok is the sheer unpredictability of the content. Sure, there are countless dance videos and trending challenges that don’t exactly contribute to my intellectual growth. But occasionally, I stumble upon something genuinely surprising—like a useful life hack or a unique perspective on a common problem.
I’ve come across cooking tips from home chefs who share unique recipes and ingenious techniques. There are also practical life hacks that, while simple, genuinely improve my daily tasks. I won’t pretend it’s always highbrow stuff, but occasionally, it delivers the kind of unexpected gem that makes me think, “Wow, I didn’t see that coming.”
2 I Actually Learn Stuff
I wasn’t initially expecting TikTok to be an educational tool, but it has become a surprising source of learning. The platform’s format encourages creators to pack useful information into short, engaging videos. I’ve learned new skills and facts from these bite-sized lessons.
I’ve picked up quick tips on fixing common tech issues without consulting a long YouTube tutorial. There are also plenty of creators who offer fascinating historical tidbits or explain scientific concepts in a way that’s accessible and entertaining.
What I love about TikTok is that it condenses these lessons into such short, easily digestible videos. You can learn something new while waiting in line or during a quick break, without feeling like you need to commit to a 20-minute lecture.
It probably helps that I’ve learnt some tricks that help me to manage my TikTok feed and avoid mistakes that ruin the FYP.
3 The Creativity Inspires Me to Try to Create as Well
If there’s a thing that stands out about TikTok, it’s the creativity that seems to flow from every corner of the app. Every day, the platform showcases a mix of talents—from impressive DIY projects to innovative art and music. Watching people bring their ideas to life often motivates me to try something new.
I’ve seen users turn everyday items into stylish home decor, inspiring me to take on a few DIY projects myself. Whether it’s starting a small art project or trying out a new hobby, the app inspires me to experiment and make something of my own.
4 I Still Set Limits for Use
Despite all the positives, I’m not naive about TikTok’s potential downsides. Privacy concerns and the risk of getting sucked into endless scrolling are all real. I try to stay aware of these risks by setting boundaries and being selective about the content I engage with.
To keep things balanced, I’ve set personal rules around my TikTok usage. I only use the app at specific times, like during a break or when I’m winding down for the evening. I also have reminders on my phone that alert me to how much time I’ve spent scrolling. It’s easy to lose track of time on the app, so these little reminders keep me in check.
Another trick is I rely on is using the app on desktop instead of my phone. The desktop experience is less immersive even though it uses the same algorithm. I find that it’s easier to close a tab than the app on my phone.
These tricks aren’t foolproof, but they help me avoid falling into the trap of endless scrolling and ensures that I’m using the app on my terms.
