From 2017-2018, I deleted all social media apps and practiced digital minimalism. Being offline and actively participating in my real life was beneficial for me and my mental health. When I started my business in 2019, I decided to create a business account on Instagram and use it intentionally to build relationships with potential clients, collaborators, and like-minded peers. It was nice to be connected to a larger community within the entrepreneurial space.

However, by the end of 2019, I noticed that my thoughts toward being on Instagram started leaning negative. I felt anxious, stressed, and overwhelmed trying to engage with my community on a daily basis. I had tried various experiments including limiting engagement to 30 minutes each day, unfollowing accounts, and taking breaks from social media. I started to question whether I needed to be on Instagram, as the clients I’ve gotten were through in-person networking events and Facebook groups.

These are my current thoughts about Instagram for business:
– I want a better relationship with Instagram
– I want to be off of Instagram but I think I need to be on
– I’m missing out on opportunities/am not doing business right if I’m not on
– I can get clients by other means
– Maybe I don’t have good boundaries around Instagram use
– I need to engage every day otherwise I become irrelevant

Unintentional model:
C – Instagram for business
T – I need to engage every day otherwise I become irrelevant
F – Stressed
A – Avoid opening the app, feel guilty that I’m “behind” and not supporting other accounts
R – Unhealthy relationship with Instagram

Intentional model:
C – Instagram for business
T – Whenever I’m able to check in is enough
F – Relaxed
A – Engage once a week for 1 hour, build and nurture relationships
R – Healthy relationship with Instagram

Intentional model:
C – Instagram for business
T – I can have a successful business without being on Instagram every day
F – Curious
A – Explore and experiment with other platforms, check in on Instagram when I want to
R – Healthy relationship with Instagram

Do these look about right? Anything you think I can explore more?