Widening my social horizons
Widening my social horizons
Likes, boosts, trends - I'll show ye the way oot.
I find I’ve been spending more time on Substack these days. It feels quite daunting starting from scratch but other social media channels just aren’t doing it for me anymore. I spend ages, thinking and drafting out ideas for posts, reels and content that is barely seen. I’m tired of playing the algorithm-game:
Post everyday
Use trending audio
Use keywords in your caption
Have a hook
Post valuable content
Show your face
What’s valuable? What’s hook-able? My main content is illustration, art and anything book-related, and I’ve been striving to find the ‘value’ in this content. The reality is, my art and voice should be of ‘value’ enough for anyone seeing the work. Showing my full behind-the-scenes process does little for my growth, it’s more of a distraction actually. I try to do it occasionally, as I’m sure it's interesting for others to see, and I feel I can give something back to my community in that way. But did it reach the goal? Did it reach people? Not really. I shouldn’t feel I have to question or reevaluate what I create simply because of the algorithm.
It has become so psychologically taxing. Art is expression and shouldn’t be defined by trends.
WHAT AM I DOUNG ABOUT IT?
I’m learning to take the approach of treating my social media as an extension of my portfolio. It’s a challenge, but trying to ignore the lack of reach my posts and reels get is another route I’m going down. The focus in this endeavour is to try move my community out of apps and onto something more tangible, more substantial. Such as my email list! It’s so heartwarming to be able to communicate directly with individuals outside the world of likes, views and trends, individuals who appreciate what you do and who have the chance to see your content. It’s freeing, eliminates the comparison monster sometimes too.
WHY SUBSTACK?
Overall, social media is a great, free way of starting and growing a business. But now I’ve come to realise, it’s also the choice of social media that makes part of the equation. Yes, some are more visually-oriented, making them ‘great’ for illustration BUT not great for personal and creative growth - so for now, I’m throwing some of my eggs in the Substack basket. It feels so great to be able to merge my writing and drawing within such a friendly environment, and not worry about whether or not it’ll get liked and boosted. It’s ok, because it’s more me, more rounded.
I’d love to hear your take on the social media conundrum - does it work for you? Does it help or hinder your creative spirit? Let me know! I’d love to get a conversation going with lovely readers such as yourself!
