Don't become a modern day Dorthy caught up in the Tornado of social media. I know it's easier said than done but believe me when I say that is just a highlight reel. My friend and I were talking recently and she was sharing with me how she was contemplating taking a social media "break". We both are on our missions of being great at what we do and taking it to the next level. So we shared stories of how difficult it can sometimes be to see everyone "making it" and feeling as if you are standing still. I told her that many of those individuals who are "making it" are also struggling but we just don't see it. I know first hand how hard it is to keep up with everything via social media, posts, pictures, finding influencers and promoting your business, it can be down right ugly. But I also told her that we should both try to do something that won't make us press pause button on social media just yet- but will definitely allow us to use it to our advantage and here's what I've come up with.
1. Limit Your Time. Too much of anything is bad, so if your already feeling down and out about where you are in life, continuously viewing the parts that someone wants you to see is not going to help. When you're really feeling down give yourself increments of time to view your social medias. Don't over consume yourself with what someone else is doing right now, more so focus on what you could be doing- even if it is something small, like taking a selfie and writing a caption that is meaningful (you never know who you are inspiring) "Today is going to be a good day, I'm only human- I'm trying"
2. "Follow" Positive & Real Individuals. In the past I have followed some individuals who I know on and off of social media- completely different lives, lol! I then learned that some people only give you that one part of their lives, so why am I comparing my whole life to what they only want me to see? In all actuality nothing and no one is perfect so, with that being said, follow those people who show you the good & the bad...they are out there! Those are the individuals who I am inspired by because they constantly state that life is not always glamorous, that it has not always been glamorous and they post some of the most normal day to day realities of being a human being. I enjoy following Myliek Teele and Yolanda Renee they are current, in the know, open with their emotions day to struggles and fierce mamas! (side note: I follow them on all social media platforms, sometimes one platform only allows them to be but so deep)
3. Organize Your Posts. In the conclusion of my chit chat with my friend, I gave her my thoughts on where she is right now, I simply advised her to be what she is looking for; someone who is dope, honest, open, available to critique and be critiqued, questionable yet secure (she's the BOMB, you guys I swear!!! ) But really, sometimes we have to lead by example- become what you need. Organize your platform so that it not only helps others, but it helps you too.
Remember social media is an outlet to show people what you are doing, if you don't like who you are following, if it makes you feel less than etc- change it. We are all going to make "it" not immediately but indefinitely. Use your social platforms to your advantage, practice using my steps when you feel anxious and remember you are your most important asset.
XOXO,
Normal Black Chic