Part 2 of Suite101's interview with YouTube star Michael Buckley. Click here for Part 1.
S101: Following up on the last question, you exude a level of confidence in all your videos (WTB as well as the others on peron75) that many people would like to emulate. What is your advice on keeping a positive attitude and having high self-esteem?
MB: I've been very fortunate that I was always kind of blessed with a positive attitude and a glass-three-quarters-or-al- the-way-full mentality. I've always just been optimistic and positive-thinking...I read The Secret, I read a lot of self-help books...I'm a positive thinker and I've always just kind of put positive thoughts out to the universe which is funny because I say such disgusting and mean things on the What the Buck Show but again, I'm kidding [on the show]...I believe the more positive thoughts you put out to the universe--'I will fall in love, I will make lots of money, I will have a lovely house to live in, I will have supportive friends'--the more you think that the more you will attract that. If you put out, 'My life sucks,' you're going to get back, 'My life sucks, people don't like me'...Keep a good attitude. I have positive post-its all over with dollar signs, smiley faces, hearts, [positive affirmations].
S101: Along those same lines, your positive attitude and confidence are displayed as well when you discuss your sexuality, which sends a very positive message to viewers. What is your advice to homosexuals who may not have yet come to terms with their sexuality or suffer with self-esteem issues?
MB: First of all, it's just not a big deal being gay in 2011. So many people are gay, and so many people are out...Look at me, my life is great and I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world...When I was growing up I didn't know any gays people...Back in 2007 I would get emails [that would say], 'you're the first gay person I've ever seen.' I took that seriously and I'm greatful...If you haven't come to terms with your sexuality be patient with yourself. I get a lot of emails from girls and they're like, 'I don't know if I like boys or if I like girls and my parents don't think I'm [bisexual]'...Don't rush to label yourself...Don't agonize over your sexuality, it's really not a big deal. If you fall in love with a man, good for you! If you fall in love with a woman, good for you! Come out when you're ready...If the time is right for you, come out. Sometimes if you're twelve years old and you live in the middle of the country and you're very scared for your safety it might not be the best time to come out until you're around a more supportive environment...Also know in terms of your relationship with your parents, they're gonna love you and if they don't love you they're a**holes, and I always say that to the kids [who write in to Dear Buck]...I know it's hard and you want a relationship with people, but you don't want a relationship with people who don't love you for being yourself...Stay strong and it will get better, just like we've all been telling you for all these years...Be a happy person regardless of your sexuality.
