This week (13 – 19th May) is Mental Health Awareness Week here in the UK. So, I thought I’d talk a bit about the impact social media can have on anxiety of business owners.
There is no doubt that running your own business is stressful in the first place. We are alone are responsible for our own success, and that brings with it a lot of anxiety.
But, social media can sometimes make that feel even harder. We get to see what other businesses are doing. And then we worry that we’re not doing the same thing.
So, how can we use social media to help us feel less anxious as business owners, rather than falling down a comparison rabbit hole?
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Remember, It’s Not Always Real Life
What you see other businesses getting up to on social media might not be a true reflection of their business. It may look like they are generating far more business than you. But you don’t know what they’re charging, or what their outgoing costs are. Or whether those really are their customers. Of course, it’s important to be authentic on social media. But don’t forget that, just because you are authentic, doesn’t mean that everyone else is!
2. Being Different is GOOD!
Don’t worry if you’re doing things differently to everyone else in your industry. In fact, doing things differently is really important on social media! It allows your business to stand out from everyone else. Do things your way. In a way that feels right for your business. And that allows you to have fun in the process.
3. Spread Positivity
The more positivity we put out on social media, the more we will attract. Think about how you can use social media as a positive place to be. Share posts that lift people up. Don’t knock down other businesses. If we were all like this, how much nicer would the social media world be?! And remember, you get to choose who you follow. If an account makes you feel on edge or overwhelmed, unfollow!
4. Use It To Build Relationships
Now I have three young children, I’m not able to get out and network as much any more. It can be quite lonely as a business owner. But now, I have built relationships online instead. I don’t need to leave my office to network. I’m able to find the people I want in my community and build relationships with them.
5. Be Real
I touched on this above, but if you put on a facade on social media, chances are it will leave you feeling more anxious. Like that knot we get in our stomach when we tell someone a lie. It sits there until the truth comes out and we suddenly feel relieved. Don’t lie on social media. It’ll burn away at you. Speak the truth and be real.
6. Use Social Media To Learn
Social media offers a great opportunity to learn new things. Follow the right experts and you have free information right at the scroll of a thumb! I always find I feel empowered when I’ve learnt something new!
7. Ask For Help
None of use are immune from needing help now and again. As business owners, we can’t always have the right answers. Use social media to ask questions from your community and get their input on problems. A problem shared is a problem halved after all!
So, please, please, please don’t see social media as a negative place to be. Somewhere that makes you feel more anxious as a business owner. Instead focus on the positive impacts it can have on your business and on you as a business owner.
