For a long time I’ve been having an uncomfortable relationship with IG (and social media in general), one reason being I hate the addiction factor, time wasting, false sense of “connection” with other people, and another being that at the same time I do enjoy using it for my work and self expression, to inspire and being inspired by people alike.

But when are we creating and when do we become dependent on approval and praise, number of likes and followers determining our worth? The energy between the two is way different.

Creating is truly expressing who you are, what you like, independently from what others think, it’s you being authentic and true to yourself. Of course everyone likes to be liked and supported, but that’s not the main reason why you create, more of a consequence. This is where real creative and quality work comes, it naturally flows through you and can be of service for others, that is creative purpose. It makes you happy, whole, in tune with who you are.

The second scenario is what too often happens, when the work comes solely from your environment’s interaction, expectation, comparison, competitiveness and it’s never good work, it’s forced, stripped down of meaning, comes from a place of “I gotta do more because I’m not enough” and it’s where you disconnect more and more from yourself. It feeds your insecurity, lack of worth and it’s bottomless.

I’m aware of this double edged sword, and it takes a lot of effort not to spiral down into unconsciousness and dependence, forgetting the purpose of these platforms, being robbed of one of the most valuable assets you have: your attention.

Finding a balance and using technology in the best way is a difficult practice, and I won’t deny technology and social media are a big part of what my business is built upon. I just want to remind you to stop when you need it and recenter yourself. Use the platforms, don’t let them use and consume you. You are powerful and your power lies in your conscious, intentional actions.