How To Get Over Instagram Anxiety Fast
Do you feel anxious every time you post something on Instagram?
Are you considering quitting the platform altogether? Don't worry, you're not alone. Social media can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to maintaining a consistent presence and engaging with followers. But if using Instagram causes you stress or resentment, something is wrong. Social media done right shouldn’t be difficult, nor should it lead to negative emotions.
Here at Numinous Creative, we understand the self-doubt that often plagues content creators, and as a social media marketing agency, we know how to tackle it! With the right mindset and approach, you can overcome your Instagram anxiety in no time.
Here are our tried-and-true tips for getting past Instagram anxiety FAST. Let’s jump right in!
Retrace Your Steps
It's important to take some time to think about what part of Instagram gives you anxiety. Do you keep rewriting your captions? Do you always feel like you’re scrambling to create new content? Or are you scared of what other people will think? Pinpointing this early on is key to reaching the right solution for you.
For instance, if you feel like you're spending too much time on social media, then you should invest time looking into productivity tools or methods. If you feel unaligned with what you're sharing, doing a deep dive into branding could help you get back on track. And if you feel like you don't have enough to share, try looking into streamlining your content creation process.
Structure is Your Friend
Instagram shouldn't dominate your life, whether personally or in business. Your two most powerful tools in achieving this are time management and a content planner.
USE YOUR TIME WISELY
Put boundaries around your time and activity and use your platforms constructively instead of passively. For example:
Do market research instead of mindless scrolling
Save inspiration for brainstorming instead of getting caught up in comparisons,
Be proactive with content creation instead of reactive
And most importantly — turn off your notifications and stick to your time block!
START A CONTENT PLANNER
Having a content planner is crucial when taking your Instagram game to the next level. Once you create a structure for your content creation plan, you'll find yourself using social media with intention — as a tool rather than a pastime. And, with a clear intention set, you can start shifting your focus onto automation and outsourcing parts of your content.
Get Out of Your Own Way
The biggest hurdle for many content creators is removing themselves as a block in their process. If you’ve spent too much time overanalyzing every one of your Instagram posts into oblivion, chances are you’re struggling with perfectionism, imposter syndrome, analysis paralysis — or all three!
Keep reminding yourself: "posted is better than perfect!". And if you find yourself struggling with these feelings, don’t hesitate to seek support. Have a freelancer draft a strategy for you, get a copywriter to plan your next six months of content, or get in touch with us here — this is our specialty!
Disconnect When Possible
Don't feel pressured to keep up with Instagram without giving yourself a break. This is unhealthy, and there's little evidence that it's necessary. Consistency is key, but that consistency can be established within your timeframe. If you crave unplugging, take weekends off, plan a social media blackout during slow seasons (e.g., December-February), or use a scheduler to have content auto-publish.
And If Social Media Doesn't Suit You — Don't Use It
Yup! You heard it from us first. The truth is that social media is just one tool in a large toolbox of digital marketing tools. It is not a be-all-end-all. If social media does not play to your strengths or to your clients' needs best, choose something else.
Bonus Truth Bomb
Give it 90 days: Many platforms need between 60-90 days to register you as a consistent and reliable source of content for them. That's why consistency is so important AND why having realistic goals are so important. Whatever goals you set for yourself, make sure to give it time to work.
Final Thoughts
If you're feeling anxious about your Instagram presence, you're not alone! So don't let it get you down. Remember: social media should not be stressful — So take a deep breath, grab a cup of tea, and try out our tips.
Here’s a quick recap:
Identify the root cause of your Instagram anxiety, then act accordingly
Use tools like a content planner and time management techniques to structure your social media use.
Focus on progress over perfection and seek support if needed.
Take breaks when necessary and use automation tools to help manage your content.
Remember that social media is just one tool in the digital marketing toolbox and it's okay to choose something else if it doesn't suit you.
Give yourself at least 90 days to see the results of your social media strategy.
Ready to take your social media game to the next level and overcome Instagram anxiety? Let Numinous Creative be your guide! Browse all of our services and reach out to get started with one of our social packages.