Let go of the Social Media drag: how quitting most social media boosted my creativity and productivity
In today’s digital age, social media platforms like Instagram and X (a.k.a Twitter) are often hailed as essential tools for artists seeking exposure and engagement. Statistics show that the average person spends about 2 hours and 24 minutes daily on social media[1], with artists dedicating significant portions of this time to promote their work. Moreover, a 2020 study revealed that 87% of art buyers use Instagram to discover new artists[2]
However, despite these promising figures, my personal experience with social media is far from rewarding. Despite daily efforts and investments in so-called “influencers” and social media experts, I found myself entangled in a web of spam, unwanted sales pitches, and dishearteningly rude comments. The time and energy spent navigating these digital minefields began to overshadow my primary passion: creating art and promoting reading to children age 4~8 and giving them a foundation for a bright future. Especially due to the fact reading comprehension is in a downward spiral[3] [4].
Social media: a place to showcase your creativity, connect with others, and build a following or so they say. But for many creators, including myself, the reality is far from glamorous. Instead of fostering inspiration, platforms like X and Facebook can become time-draining pits of spammy DMs, relentless sales pitches, algorithm games, and the occasional outright rude comment. If you’ve ever felt like shouting, “This isn’t worth it!” you’re not alone and I dreaded it as well.
To combat the demotivating thoughts, I decided to step back, reevaluate, and ultimately ditch most of the social media grind. Here’s why I believe it’s not just okay to quit, but sometimes the smartest move, especially if your true passion lies beyond chasing likes.
The hidden costs of social media for artists
While social media offers undeniable benefits, it’s crucial to acknowledge the potential drawbacks:
Time consumption:
The average internet user spends nearly 2.5 hours daily on social media[5] For artists, this time could be better spent honing their craft and to be honest as an artist. I rather draw and create art, then to delete spam messages and or unwanted sales pitches from people, who clearly aren’t your target audience and/or customers. Additionally, time is the most important asset you have! Time wasted you’ll never get back and can’t spend on your family or creating your art. Money you can earn again and/or more off, however time is forever lost.
Emotional toll:
Exposure to negative comments and the pressure to maintain a constant online presence can lead to burnout and decreased creative motivation. Plus reading comments of “trolls” and or jealous people with only curse words as response, is not a constructive use of your time.
Financial Strain:
Investing in social media promotions or consultants doesn’t always guarantee increased engagement or sales. It can lead to potential financial losses. Especially when you consider the fact followers or likes doesn’t equal sales of your art or books. Especially if your target audience isn’t reached and those socalled experts can’t show proof of their projects.
As an example I’m spammed with so- called reviews of my books (paid). Not only do I belief these reviews are fake and not contributing at all, it is even a bigger waste when your target audience isn’t reached at all.
Another bad experience I’ve had when hiring a marketing team on a book promotion and crowdfund campaign. They had many stories and boasted of their success, however their demands of handing over my social media passwords and details left me open to all sorts of trouble. Still battling a identity theft case and got more trouble then I bargained for. Additionally, their promotions were straight out of ChatGPT (copy paste), posted on accounts with 0 followers and they were not using their extensive network at all even when paying a high fee. Needless to say the promotion boosted nothing, but just drained my budget and resources and mood.
How about Crowdfunding? Unfortunately I got the same bad experience, hiring expert(s) with claims of high success, but not willing to be paid from the donations. Right away showing lack of responses, service, not listening to my wishes or requests. This showed right off the bat they’re not fit to be used. I recommend also not to pay in advance and if really needed just pay only a small part. Let them proof their worth.
When looking to have a marketing expert writing your campaign and giving options for backers. You assume you can rely on their experience. You pay them for a higher chance of success and get full use of their experience. However when you get zero traction, while posting daily on multiple sources and platforms and got no feedback or help at all, it is not just wasting your mood, but also your time and money.
My tip: if a so-called expert in marketing and crowdfunding approaches you and they boast to be so successful and see potential in your product/book. That’s fine, but if they’re not willing to be paid from part of the donations of the crowdfund campaign. I recommend that you don’t waste time, because it’s just a smokescreen to get you to part ways with your money and it will demotivate you from your art.
Alternative strategies for artists
Recognizing these challenges, I decided to step away from most social media and explore other avenues to showcase my work:
Portfolio website: Creating a personal website allowed me to present my art authentically, free from the constraints of algorithms. You can find mine on Ko-Fi, where some galleries are free, but you can get many more access to galleries if you become a subscriber and you can send me questions and custom request as well.
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Local networking: Participating in community events and art fairs facilitated genuine connections and opportunities. I really enjoy giving reading sessions at schools and/or create art for dentists, home doctors and places where you can find children and support them by making the children less nervous by encouraging art.
Collaborations:
Partnering with local businesses and artists expanded my reach without relying on social media platforms. Proud to see some of my poster art at several businesses.
Embracing authenticity over algorithms
Stepping away from social media was a liberating decision, that allowed me to focus on my true passion: creating art. While these platforms can offer exposure, they are not the sole avenues for success. By prioritizing authentic connections and dedicating more time to my craft, I found greater fulfillment and productivity.
For artists feeling overwhelmed by the demands of social media, it’s essential to remember that success isn’t solely defined by online presence. Exploring alternative methods of showcasing your work can lead to more meaningful and rewarding experiences.
The bottom line: Focus on what matters
Social media can be a tool, but it doesn’t have to be the centerpiece of your creative journey. For me, stepping away was a liberating choice that allowed me to focus on what truly mattered: illustrating and connecting with people who value my work. I’ll keep my Instagram to promote my work and show off my illustrations, however Facebook, X, Pinterest or other non-beneficial platforms will be stopped completely or reduced significantly.
If social media feels like more of a chore than a benefit, remember this: you don’t need it to succeed. Your time is better spent creating your passion and art, not chasing likes. Because likes aren’t sales or people buying your art.
So what’s stopping you from stepping away? Well maybe it’s time to find out! Especially when your art creation is your priority and passion.
If you like my content please support me on Ko-Fi and you can find my children books here and here. For custom projects and poster (AI) art or illustrations you can find me on Fiverr. Thank you in advance!
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