Conquering Social Media Anxiety: Tips for Service-Based Entrepreneurs

"Oh no, I don't use #LinkedIn"!

When I ask Why?

They usually reply "I don't know" or

"I thought it was just for a job search".

Some people just feel insecure promoting their business on any #socialmedia platform, especially on LinkedIn.

Many of my colleagues and clients avoid LinkedIn like it's a scary beast.

If you had told me 10 years ago, that I'd be posting any kind of content on LinkedIn, I'd laugh out loud.

The truth is ...

I was most comfortable hiding in the background. Secretly scrolling profiles, sometimes liking other people's posts, sharing other people's content, and a little commenting, here and there.

That was my comfort zone.

When clients tell me how scared they are to show up brave, bold, and confident on #socialmedia to promote their business, I truly understand. But if you want clients, you have to conquer your social media anxiety to promote your business on social media.

You can't live in your comfort zone and expect to live in abundance.

I began using LinkedIn many years ago when it was considered just an "online resume".

That's why I was familiar with the platform when I transitioned from employee to entrepreneur.

Do you remember LinkedIn back in 2011?

However, "selling services" versus "job searching", brought up some uncomfortable emotions #businessanxiety and more specifically #socialmediaanxiety.

• It's scary comparing yourself to others on social media.
• It's scary sharing your thoughts publicly.
• It's scary not knowing what to post.

The reasons behind social media anxiety among service-based entrepreneurs

1. The Fear of Judgment

One of the primary reasons service-based entrepreneurs feel anxiety about posting on social media is the fear of judgment. They worry about what others will think of their content, whether it's their ideas, photos, or videos. This fear often stems from the misconception that their content must be flawless.

I often help my clients work through "Impression management" which is the sum total of actions we take — both consciously and unconsciously — to influence how others perceive us. Better up.com

Remember, social media is a platform for authenticity, not perfection.

Tip: Overcome the fear of judgment by reminding yourself that not everyone will love your content, and that's okay. Focus on providing value to your target audience, and your niche.

2. Comparison to Others

Social media is a hotbed of comparison. Service-based entrepreneurs often feel overwhelmed when they see their peers' seemingly perfect posts and accomplishments. This comparison can lead to feelings of inadequacy and hinder their own content creation. I've even heard some people say they feel "jealous".

Tip: Instead of comparing yourself to others, use their success as inspiration. Analyze what works for them and adapt it to your unique style and offerings.

3. Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)

The fear of missing out is another prevalent source of social media anxiety. Service-based entrepreneurs worry that they'll miss out on opportunities or trends if they're not constantly active on social media. To prevent burnout, use automation. There are apps to schedule your posts, like Calendly, Hootsuite, and MeetEdgar.

Tip: Create a manageable posting schedule that aligns with your lifestyle and business goals. Check in with your mental bandwidth, and plan your activity around your mental capacity. Quality content is more important than quantity, and consistency trumps frequency.

4. Seeking Validation from Likes

Many entrepreneurs seek validation through the number of likes, comments, and shares their posts receive. When posts don't get the expected engagement, it can be disheartening.

Tip: Shift your focus from external validation to internal satisfaction. Invest in your personal and emotional development. Measure success by the impact your content has on your target audience rather than likes or comments.

5. Fear of No Engagement and Embarrassment

The thought of posting content and receiving little to no engagement can be discouraging. Service-based entrepreneurs fear embarrassment if their posts go unnoticed or unappreciated.

Tip: Remember that social media algorithms can be unpredictable. Stay patient and persistent, and don't let a lack of engagement deter you from your goals. Also, I learned from clients, they consumed the content and just didn't like or reply online. So keep posting, you are someone's solution.

6. Fear of Going Live, Posting Pictures, and Videos

Live streaming, posting pictures, and sharing videos can be particularly daunting. Many entrepreneurs fear being on camera or revealing aspects of their personal or professional lives.

Tip: Start small and gradually build your comfort zone. Practice going live or sharing pictures in a supportive community before going public.

You may be wondering, what next? How do you overcome your fears of showing up as a thought leader?

For starters here's a short list of 3 things I did:

1. I stopped comparing myself to others on social media.
2. I learned how to share my story.
3. I learned what to post.

Number #1 is ALL about mindset, #2 and #3 are skills, that can be learned. Conquering social media anxiety, wasn't the easiest thing, but it also wasn't the hardest thing I've ever done. You can do this too.

Journal Prompts:

1. How is your fear of social media holding you back?
2. What are your negative thoughts about social media?
3. What are the benefits for your business if you build confidence now?

Seneca Williams, LMHC is an Entrepreneur therapist, coach, and speaker for service-based entrepreneurs ready to break through business anxiety and beat business burnout.

She is a mental health speaker (for hire) at Universities, Corporations, Organizations, and Business Groups.?

Topics (Programs): Speaker Reel

• Cultivating Mental Wealth For Work-Life Alignment?
• Self-Care Bootcamp "Give yourself permission to pause"?
• Business Anxiety Breakthrough?
• Conquering Time Management

Seneca is also the founder of The Conquer Network, a personal growth platform for service-based entrepreneurs. The mission is to provide mental health-focused business support for entrepreneurs with online businesses.

Disclaimer: Business Anxiety is not a mental health diagnosis. Coaching is not a replacement for therapy. This article is not medical advice. Please consult a therapist licensed in your state (country) if you are experiencing signs of a mental health disorder. Visit www.nami.org or www.psychologytoday.com

Call 9–8–8 the National Suicide Crisis Lifeline?

Contact Seneca Via Website: www.senecawilliams.com

Subscribe to the Business Anxiety Breakthrough Newsletter

Follow Seneca Williams on LinkedIn?

Follow The Conquer Network on LinkedIn?

Let's chat, join the free group to stay in touch! @The Conquer Network.

Disclaimer: This article provides tips and suggestions for overcoming social media anxiety. Social Media Anxiety is not a mental health diagnosis.

This is not a substitute for professional advice. If you are struggling with severe anxiety or mental health issues, please seek guidance from a mental health professional.