Over the holidays, I saw a connection share they took a few days off social media, and when they came back, their numbers were down because the algorithm had done its thing due to a lack of participation. They encouraged everyone not to take a break – what!
All I could think is how terribly sad. Are we ALL allowing algorithms to run our life?
Not me! I share hard stuff. The stuff no one wants to hear, because it’s not pleasant, but it needs to be heard regardless. However, sharing hard stuff has a cost, a big one, and it takes a toll – mind, body and soul. So, in my case, taking a break from social media is vital for my health and well-being – algorithms be damned!
I also understand the negative side of social media and because I understand it (and fight against it), I don’t pander to what makes it successful – even if it guarantees less success for me. I figure people will find what I share if they care about what I care about.
So, if you feel the same way but are encouraged to participate out of alignment with your values, then I hope this gives you a little boost to follow your heart, versus the advice so freely splashed around about succeeding. Besides, with so many leaving social media because it’s gotten too ugly, too grabby, too depressing… perhaps that advice is part of the problem, huh?
A few tips…
Take a break when you are exhausted, overwhelmed, or at breaking point – you won’t perform at your best and could potentially alienate followers. Step back and give yourself the chance to rest and get into a better frame of mind, however long that takes.
Turn off all social media notifications – the little red numbers telling you how many messages you have on the social media platforms you follow. I did this in 2023 and initially it was hard, but now, it’s a relief. I get a surprise when I jump on and there are lots of messages.
Avoid posting when you’re in an overly emotional state. Step back and allow the emotions to pass and only then share. This is a game-changer, especially if you have a regular troll following, because you are emotionless to their nonsense too.
Social media delivered the democratization of information and what is great about it needs to recognized, celebrated and protected, however, what is bad about it is what dominates today. Because of this, many are tuning out when we need to be paying attention, but I believe it’s on all of us to focus on what makes social media great and participate in alignment with that, versus jumping on the bandwagon of algorithmic success, because that success comes at a huge cost to our peace of mind.
Let’s stop pandering to algorithms and get back in tune with humanity. We need to use these tools, but we don’t want to live ‘in’ these tools, do we?
I’ve had a deep rest, which felt good. Back again for another year, it’s going to be intense.
Cheers
Andrea
Want to support my work?
You can buy me a coffee.
Want to get in touch?
All my contact information is here on Linktree.
Environment education
Four environment resources to help you navigate this challenging territory.
- Knowledge, constantly updating
- Individual action and awareness, so we do our part
- Resources for those struggling with eco-anxiety. Please share with your community.
- Finally, more than 100 mini-videos on many topics regarding the multiple crisis’ we face. Feel free to download and use as your own. No credit necessary.
Uncommon Courage: an invitation
Uncommon Courage is an invitation to be your courageous best self every day. It’s also an antidote to the overwhelm, fear, and rage rolling around the world. But it’s more than a book; it’s an invitation to join an inclusive community that wants to better understand humanities challenges – both global and personal – in order to take courageous action and create a better world for everyone. If Covid19 has given us the time and space to reflect, Uncommon Courage gives us the nudge we need to create lasting change.
You can buy it on Amazon, Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, Book Depository, Booktopia, Smashwords, Kobo, Gardners, Odilo, Indie Bound, BookShop by BookTrib and Scribd.
Better yet, order it from your local bookstore, so you can #SupportLocal.
You can read the reviews, including a new five-star review on Book Commentary, another five-star review on ReaderViews, a review on BookTrib, and three more on Booklife, another on Book Commentary and Blue Ink Reviews. I’m also collating reviews on my Website too. Have a look and grateful to everyone who has written or recorded one.
Come and join the conversation in my Facebook Group Uncommon Courage.
Listen in to the Uncommon Courage, the podcast on Apple, Spotify and everywhere podcasts are published.
The Know Show
Check out The Know Show. It’s a fortnightly wrap up of the news!
Climate Courage
A fortnightly conversation on issues that matter to you and I, focusing on the actions we can all take.
18 Steps to an All-Star LinkedIn Profile
Listed by Book Authority in the 100 Best LinkedIn Books of All Time and 22 Best New LinkedIn eBooks To Read In 2021 and 2022 categories. Grab it today if you want to take your professional presence to the next level! When it comes to LinkedIn, it really is time to ask — can you really afford not to have this book in the hands of every employee?
Are you a Social CEO? The Social CEO: How Social Media Can Make You A Stronger Leader.
Want to claim your stage? Unleash Your Voice – Powerful Public Speaking for Every Woman
