As I ventured deeper into the digital realm, embracing the roles of a podcast co-host with PJ, a blogger on this website, YouTuber on our channel, E-book Author, Anti-Racism Educator and Activist and Content Creator I quickly learned a fundamental truth: The more content you create, the more you invite the world into your personal space. As someone whose motto was, “Social media sees only what I choose to show,” this was no small adjustment. My journey from a private individual to a public persona has been filled with learning curves and eye-opening moments. It prompted a candid discussion with my therapist about safeguarding my personal life while being continuously under the public’s scrutiny which also caused a bit of the A word “Anxiety”.
The digital age demands openness but begs for caution. While eager to connect with my audience, I was equally determined to shield my peace of mind and privacy. Here’s how I’m managing this delicate balance, with insights that might help anyone navigating the social media landscape:
1. Define Your Boundaries:
Before you post, think about what parts of your life you’re comfortable sharing. It’s crucial to have a clear line that defines what’s public and what’s strictly private.
2. Learn Your Privacy Settings:
Social platforms offer various tools to help manage your visibility. Features like Instagram’s “Close Friends” can be invaluable for sharing more personal moments with a select circle, minimizing exposure.
3. Guard Personal Information:
Revealing too much like your full name, exact location, or daily routines – can make you vulnerable. Always consider the implications of sharing personal data, and never share others’ information without explicit consent.
4. Structuring Your Social Media Use: It’s easy to let content creation consume your life. Establishing clear work times and breaks helps maintain the boundary between your professional and private lives.
5. Pause Before You Post:
Each share should be thoughtful. Remember, the internet has a long memory, and once something is out there, it can be difficult to take back.
6. Document Everything:
In the face of potential disputes or harassment, keeping records of your interactions online (like DMs, emails, and comments) can serve as important evidence.
7. Dealing with Negative Interactions: Use platform tools to block, mute, or report abusive behavior. Remember to steer clear of engaging with trolls or harassers.
8.Pro Tip for Business Correspondence: Utilize a PO Box for receiving business-related mail. It’s a simple yet effective way to keep your home address private.
Embarking on this journey of content creation and allowing others into my life has been as challenging as it has been rewarding. Every blog post, podcast episode, and vlog is a learning opportunity not just about content creation, but about myself. As my platform grows, so does my understanding of the delicate interplay between public engagement and personal privacy.
Each interaction, each share, and each new follower is a testament to the evolving relationship I have with my audience. While the boundaries between public and private shift, maintaining them is both an art and a necessity for anyone in the public eye.
Whether you’re just starting out or are a seasoned content creator, remember that the integrity of your private life is as important as the content you produce. Here’s to finding to your balance in the spotlight!
