How authentic are we on social media?
Yesterday afternoon, my son and I headed to our favourite woods for a walk and some fun in the stream. This special place is one we discovered during the COVID-19 lockdown, and it’s become a cherished spot for us. We spent hours there, with him splashing around in his wellies and me lugging along all our gear — sand toys, a scooter, lunch, and change of clothes.
Even now, as my son has grown, he still loves these woods. Our visit yesterday made me reflect on the concept of authenticity, particularly in the context of social media.
As an author, I understand the importance of social media marketing, but I’m far from an expert. It’s been a journey of learning as I go. The pressure to keep up with the skills required — shooting videos, editing photos, and crafting engaging content — can feel overwhelming. Once you publish a book, it inevitably becomes a business, and suddenly you find yourself needing a website, a newsletter, and multiple social media accounts. Consistency is key — not just in promoting your book but also in offering valuable content to your followers.
It’s challenging to stay motivated when I’m feeling down or full of self-doubt. No one wants to see doom and gloom on their feed, right? At times I just want to be honest and say I’m struggling and need a break. Creating content doesn’t come naturally to me. I don’t always take selfies during my runs because that time feels sacred to me — a moment just for myself. The same goes for family time. I have made a decision not to include pictures of my son on social media, which restricts natural content creation even more.
Moreover, you can’t be successful in social media by posting only when you feel like it. Social media marketing is part of the job, something you need to keep up with to be favoured by the algorithm. But does this constant need for content creation lead to losing authenticity somewhere along the way? Or do we keep posting content because our content calendar requires it?
Finding authenticity on social media is a complex challenge. The platforms are designed to highlight the best moments, often leading to a curated version of reality. While it’s understandable to want to share polished version of life, it’s important to remember that authenticity also involves acknowledging the less perfect moments. This honesty can help build a more genuine connection with your audience. It’s also helpful to remind yourself that it’s okay to take breaks from social media. Your well-being should always come first.
In the end, I think it’s about finding a balance. It’s essential to share both the joyful moments and the challenges, all while respecting the personal boundaries we set for ourselves. Social media is a tool, but it shouldn’t dictate our lives. For now, I’ll keep enjoying these quiet moments with my son, cherishing the peace and authenticity they bring. I hope you find your own spaces of peace and authenticity, too.
How do you stay authentic on social media while balancing the need to maintain a positive presence? I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences.
