In this episode, I’m diving into the messy reality of creative progress and why it’s never as linear as we want it to be.

You might recognize that fun cycle of "this is genius → this is garbage → maybe it’s okay". Been there, done that!

But instead of forcing creative breakthroughs, I introduced a new simple practice for myself to keep my momentum.

As a result, I am still growing creatively - even if I'm not feeling creative or making the best bangers ever! ✨ If you’ve ever felt frustrated with your creative process, I hope this episode reminds you that growth can happen in all kinds of ways—even when it doesn’t feel like it. 👉 Join my newsletter at whatthefocus.com to get updates about new episodes.

In this episode, I’m sharing an update halfway through my 30-day Instagram Detox. Will I ever go back? That remains to be seen 👀

I cover the (very!) positive effects so far on my sense of self-connection, creativity and community—as well as as some considerations for the future.

[00:02:10] Connection:

Finding peace in the enoughness of my own life. Why not knowing what others are doing is freeing, and how much more at peace I feel with myself.

[00:07:23] Creativity:

How deactivating Instagram has improved my focus for guitar practice and songwriting. Plus, how my relationship with short-form content as a whole is changing (even with TikTok).

[00:10:37] Community:

The realization that I’m more social WITHOUT social media. Intentional, direct, and meaningful contact is so much better than reacting to digital versions of people.

[00:13:49] Considerations:

Will I go back? My honest thoughts on whether Instagram is really needed for my creative and personal goals and why I’m not entirely sure yet.

Prompt:

Instead of thinking about what you “should” do or what other people do, ask yourself: what are my most important values in life and does being on social media (or a specific app) align with those values?

Listen in to explore how stepping away from the noise can amplify your creativity and simplify your life.

👉 Join my newsletter at whatthefocus.com to get updates about new episodes.

Is social media quietly draining your creative energy and peace of mind? In this honest episode, I share why I deactivated my Instagram account for the time being and the surprising effect it has had on me already.

Here's what I cover:

• 🎯 [0:00-4:00] What happened during the holidays that made me realize I wanted to take a step back.
• 📱 [4:00-10:00] My beef with Instagram's story feature and how it creates unhealthy checking habits.
• 🤔 [10:00-16:00] The difference between Instagram's "highlight reel" culture versus more authentic platforms
• 💭 [16:00-22:00] Why keeping up with friends' stories isn't as important as we think (and better alternatives).
• ✨ [22:00-27:00] How stepping away from Instagram helped me feel more present and content with the here-and-now.
• 🌱 [27:00-31:00] Practical questions to help you reflect on your own social media use and what might need to change.

Are your social media habits truly serving your creativity and wellbeing? I hope this episode inspires you to reflect on what digital minimalism might look like for you in 2025.

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