I finally did it.

I deleted Instagram off my phone last Friday. 😳

For years I’ve been saying things like, “I hate social media!”

And “If I didn’t have a business I wouldn’t even be on it.”

​Back in 2021 when I decided not to go back to teaching I got off of all social media​ to which Matt replied, “Uh… You’re starting a business, don’t you kinda need social media?”

I took a 6 week break from everything, but eventually ended up back on Instagram. 😕

As a photographer – it was always my favorite.

Then over the years things happened…

📽️ Reels hit the scene in an attempt to be more like TikTok.

😵‍💫 My kid (who recently turned eight) is ALREADY asking when she can get a phone.

💔 I find myself scrolling and feeling more anxious, cranky, and disconnected when I finally put my phone down.

So on Friday I said ✌ ️out to having that soul sucking app on my phone and available to me all the time.

So far, I absolutely freaking love it! 😍

Here’s what I’ve done in less than a week…

⏰ Bought a digital clock to put under the tv so I don’t even need to look at my phone to check the time

🃏 Played a million games of Uno Flip with my kids (and even some Phase 10 with Matt)

🎂 Wrapped all my 5 year old’s presents for his birthday next week (usually I’m a night-before kinda wrapper)

📖 Read a few more chapters of the book I’ve been reading for months

🦇 And even watched a scary movie called Abigail with Matt one night – instead of scrolling and telling myself I need to get a hobby 😂

But what about my business… How does that work?

I check Instagram on my computer when I’m working at my desk in case I have messages or stories I wanna reply to.

But I quickly realized that in order to repost a story I’ve been tagged in, I have to be on the app. Booooo. 🙄

Then I realized I can use my iPad like a phone and post from there! Voilà! 🎉 So I keep that in my office and just do it during work hours too. 💥

​I’m lucky enough to have my VA Emily​ help with posting planned stories (for pop-up parties and collaborations) but all the other stuff I can just hop on my iPad for. Easy Peasy.

​And I have my static grid​ so I know people who find me will know exactly who I am, what I do, and where to find me, so that’s reassuring in terms of still “showing up” on social media.

Anyhoo. I just wanted to share this new experiment with you.

I will admit that ​I’m kinda nervous that videos like this​ will suck me back in, but I gotta stay strong!

I’m not sure how long this will last, but with just 6 days under my belt it feels great. And my next idea is to buy some cool paint supplies and FINALLY start making art again.

I’ll update you next week on the status of that goal. 😅

So, how about you? What’s your relationship like with social media these days? Do you love it, wanna leave it?

Send me a message and let me know!

xo
dd