Shifting the Socials: A Return to What I Know
I’ve spent so much time and energy trying to figure out how to fit my business into all the ever-changing rules and trends of social media.
For years, I kept looking for new ways to adapt, new tricks to grow, new strategies to stay seen. But somewhere along the way, all that chasing made me scared, worried, and frustrated — and I found myself scrolling more and sharing less.
Here’s what I know is true for me:
Facebook has been a source of personal trauma from the very beginning. I didn’t like it when it first appeared, and it’s only gotten harder over time. For many in my circle — especially women, artists, and those in midlife and beyond — Facebook has done real harm:
- It’s fostered comparison and self-doubt
- Fueled negativity and group drama
- Made it harder to protect boundaries
- Pressured us to “keep up” or perform in ways that don’t feel right
- Sometimes even led to harassment or loss of creative confidence
- Created an environment where thoughtful voices are drowned out by louder, algorithm-favored ones
I miss the Instagram of old.
I’m choosing to share more images again — even if the algorithm prefers video or volume or trends I can’t keep up with.
Pinterest was once a haven for inspiration, and I let it go chasing new, shiny things. I want to rediscover that space, and share there more intentionally.
Blogs have always felt like a place for wordy storytellers — and I’ve never thought of myself that way.
But maybe it’s time to open up, just a little, and share more of how my everyday Danielle self weaves into my online presence.
Did you know?
In a recent study by the Pew Research Center, over 40% of adults said social media makes them feel overwhelmed — and that number climbs significantly among women over 35 who use it for creative or professional work. The platforms were designed for connection, but they often end up rewarding constant visibility over meaningful presence.
So, this is the start of something quieter and more true to me.
I’ll be making small, intentional changes in how and where I show up online. Not all at once, not dramatically. Just one gentle adjustment at a time — back to what I love, and away from what drains me.
If any of this sounds familiar, or you’re feeling the tug toward a slower, more intentional online world, you’re welcome to follow along. I’ll be sharing more here on the blog, and pinning each post over on Pinterest — a quieter space that feels less like a performance and more like a soft shelf for ideas.
-Danielle
Where to Connect
If you’ve made it this far, thank you. I know there are many ways to spend your time online, and I’m grateful you spent a few moments here. If you’d like to keep in touch or explore more reflections in this series, here are a few gentle ways to stay connected:
You can find this series on Pinterest — a quiet board to return to when the world feels too loud. Save, revisit, or explore more reflections as they’re added. If something in this post resonates, I’d love for you to save or share it there. I’ve quietly turned off comments here — but I hope the conversation continues in the ways that feel right to you. No pressure. Just a place to return to when the world feels too loud.
You’re also welcome to join my Newsletter — it’s where I share thoughtful updates, first looks, and occasional peeks into my studio. And if you’d like to stay up to date on my latest posts and stories, you can follow me on Instagram.