It’s been a whirlwind in the world of social media recently. With all that is going on in the world politically, polarization is rife on the Meta platforms, and fear is everywhere. And with good reason. Powers are shifting, and many expect bad things to unfold. Zuckerberg did a U-turn into a dark alleyway, and everyone is holding their breath. Many are also looking for alternatives for Meta in terms of social platforms. But we have made these platforms such a huge part of our lives, that we kind of feel lost, especially as small creative businesses. What can you do?
Do we need an alternative for Meta?
To be honest with you, I am just very tired of social media. Not only do I want to get out of this negative energy (because, what am I doing to help rather than get upset?), but it is so time-consuming. I have been fed up for a while now. Not just because it has become such a mudslinging pit of anger and hate, but because I am addicted. So the question is, do we really NEED another social media platform to get ourselves hooked to?
I get it, social media is also super helpful in making new connections. Having emigrated twice, I would have struggled to settle in as fast as I did. I still rely on local Facebook groups for local news and events. Also on Instagram I have made some very good friends online. People who I have not met in real life, but I am in contact with on almost a daily basis because we are on the same wavelength and we support each other as business buddies and as humans. So no, not all is negative here.
However, the increasing sponsored posts, the constant ads, the weird algorithms and sheer overwhelm of content… I can seriously do without it. And do I really still need to be connected to that ex-colleague from fifteen years ago? And that handful of loyal Likers on my profile, could I invite them to join my email list instead?
Dopamine addiction
I pick up my phone to check Instagram more often that I would like to admit. First thing in the morning, last thing at night. As an escape, a pacifier, a dopamine hit. Instead of creating, reading, walking or simply being present…I scroll. I noticed it makes me feel agitated, scattered, anxious and lethargic. My mind jumps from one thing to the next. Adhd? No, scroll brain.
And now with the latest Zuckerberg saga, do I really still want to give so much of my sacred mind space and power away to his platform that has Zucked us in by the billions?
Mind-control and algorithms
Nothing is private anymore, it seems. Perhaps it is time to protect the only thing we still have control over: our mind. Whereas politicians used to buy up newspapers and radio stations, they now have their fingers deep in the social media pies. And with AI coming in thick and fast, I firmly believe it is time to take back our freedom and power as sovereign humans. Sometimes this all seems too much like a science fiction movie on Netflix about to get real, don’t you agree?
I once read a book by Dave Eggers, called ‘The Circle’, and it scared the heck out of me. That was twelve years ago, and things have slowly gone in that exact direction. A world where nothing is private anymore, and everything is shared. Freedom is my most important value. I don’t wish a future like this, and I don’t want to give my energy and mind to this type of development either. Whether I can stop any of this from happening, I doubt it, but I can make sensible choices for my own sanity. I think people have forgotten the value of privacy.
Alternative platforms to Meta
The good thing about these platforms right now is, is that they are not overpopulated yet, and have a bit of a fresh, new feel to it. No sponsored posts, no ads. People are often very helpful and friendly, welcoming, and supportive. Find a celebrity on it, and you may well have a chance to get a reply.
Digital minimalism
The truth is also, 99% of my coaching clients come from Google searches. Rather than social media, I am better to focus on converting more of my web traffic, who are often people looking for the help I offer.
I am planning to give social media a rest for The Creative Business Coach for a bit. Maybe delete it completely, I don’t know yet. I will focus on my website, blog and email list as my main marketing channels. Digital minimalism.
Just to see what will happen.
I know what will happen. I’ll have more time to be creative.
And feel less scattered. I will have a much higher chance of writing that solo album this year.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Have a great week, and keep sane.
