I removed 400 Instagram followers last week, here's why:

I removed around 400 followers from my Instagram followers (and unfollowed about that many accounts as well). Here’s why:

1: My Instagram engagement has been lower than I want it to be in the areas that matter to me. And while engagement seems out of our control in the world of updates and algorithms, it does help to clear away inactive or spam accounts and accounts who never interact with you.

2: Honestly? It was a good miniature ego death. I wholeheartedly believe that (unless you’re intentionally trying to be/become an influencer), followers don’t equal success, but I’m still a human and get caught up emotionally attached to things that don’t really matter. Watching my follower count drop drastically because of my own decisions was an interesting exercise of control and letting go at the same time.

3: I’m shifting how I think about and move in my career, artistic practices, and storytelling, and part of me wants to disappear and just reappear when I figure it all out, but I know that’s not actually wise. So instead, I’m giving myself time, space, and grace. And as I’m doing that, I thought I’d invite some more energy, breathing room, and intention behind what I see and who sees me.

So why should you care?

I hope you set yourself free from any expectations to “be” anyone in this strange online world of ours. I hope you find ways in the real world to remind you how deeply valuable you are-no follower count, likes, or internet presence required. You being here, being real, breathing the air around you, means everything to those that truly matter to you.

Here’s to art, stories, and magic, because friend, you’re all of that and more.