Last week I took a week off. I didn’t do any social media posts, write a blog post, or send out my weekly newsletter. There was a time when not doing this, even while on vacation, wouldn’t have sat well with me. I know enough to realize that the powers behind social media will penalize me for my lack of inactivity. Still, I’ve decided that I don’t want to feel obligated to do things that don’t bring me joy for fear of the consequences.
For years I have been posted on different social media platforms daily. A couple of years ago, I decided to shorten it down to four days a week. I don’t know if it’s social media fatigue or watching too many documentaries about the different ways social media is trying to manipulate us. Still, I’m ready to walk away from social media.
In the past few months, I’ve watched webinars and read articles written by people who have let go of social media and have found a way to have a thriving business still. It is possible to do, and like anything where you expect to see a result, you have to be consistent in whatever you choose to do.
I originally started participating in social media platforms to connect with family in other countries. When I started my business, a lot of my social media activity was business-related. There was a time when I was preparing my social media posts on the weekend and scheduling them so that even if I wasn’t actively on the platforms, I still have posts going up.
It used to be fun to look for articles that I found useful and share them. I used to have fun creating the graphics to post. Now it just feels like work. I’m going through the motions to maintain a presence on social media because I don’t want the analytic gods to punish me.
I’m at the point now where I think I may take a break for the remainder of the month. It’s a bit risky since I have a workshop at the end of the month, but it’s a risk I’m willing to take. There are better, more effective ways for me to market that doesn’t require social media.
If you’re still having fun on social media, this isn’t meant to rain on your parade. We all have different needs and enjoy different activities.
If you’re on social media and after your time browsing or scrolling, you’re feeling worse than you did before you started, it may be time to reduce your social media time and find other activities that bring you joy.
I’ll keep you posted on how my social media detox goes and if I choose to return to the platform in July. Wish me luck! ♥