As a strong introvert, I believe knowing people–really understanding people’s motivations and understanding why they are who they are–con only come from one on one time with them.
Which is why I don’t subscribe to hero worship as an idea that in any way interests me.
Being overcome with “omg, that’s __[fill in the blank with famous person whose public content you’ve consumed]__” comes across as sycophantic and infantile.
Yes, somehow that person’s content may have improved your life. Yes, you may want to tell them you’ll bear them babies (even if the plumbing combination is all wrong). But they are people, too. And should be afforded all the kindness you give strangers, either:
- A quiet disregard where you pointedly ignore each other like ships in the night or–amazingly-strangers anywhere in public
- A quiet (and controlled) introduction and “your work has meant a lot to me.” Give them a chance to further the conversation, rather than forcing it.
I’ll admit some public figures love attention–and live publicly solely for that–but most probably appreciate (even an attempt by you at) pretended anonymity.
Give it a try the next time you see someone you know of, who doesn’t know you.