I get it! Instagram often makes me feel ill.
Whether it’s from the onslaught of bad news, over-edited and perfect photos, or just false self-love doctrine, Instagram is becoming harder and harder to stay on.
(You’re not the only one feeling this!)
Here’s two things to do:
1. Ask yourself: What is the QUANTITY of your Instagram exposure?
Some people choose to take breaks.
Some people choose to get off entirely.
Some people choose to set timers for themselves.
Some people take only Sundays off.
It’s all about setting boundaries! What would be best for you? Write it down to make it more of a solid commitment.
2. Ask yourself: What is the QUALITY of your Instagram exposure?
You know this: Instagram operates on an algorithm. It notices what you pause to view, like, and comment on. Instagram then uses that information to create a feed that’s tailor-made to you.
My mom’s Instagram feed: monkeys hula hooping, dogs wearing pea coats, art, and classy women’s fashion advice.
Let’s admit it: her feed is way more wholesome than ours. 😉
Now you can use the algorithm to your advantage!
SUBTRACTING: Adjusting people you follow.
Go to your Instagram page (the far right button on your app), then hit the number of people you’re following. A screen will appear that shows everyone you’re following. At the top, there will be two sections.
Least Interacted With: These people, you probably already aren’t super interested in. Is it because they just don’t interest you? They make you feel discontent or negative? Clean this area out.
Most Shown in Feed: These are the accounts Instagram things you LOVEEEEE. This is a really important section, because these accounts are the bulk of what you’re looking at! Are they fitness influencers that make you feel self-conscious? Shops that make you want to buy everything you see? Only you know how you feel about these accounts and if the influence is good or bad. Clean this area out.
ADDING: Following positive influences.
I decided a while ago that I wanted the bulk of my Instagram to be made up of two things:
- Christian accounts to keep me accountable and constantly dwelling on God
- Art accounts to keep me inspired and always learning/observing
(I am so lucky that I get to actually be that encouraging Christian account for a lot of girls!)
MULTIPLYING: Becoming a positive influence.
Everyone is called to represent Christ. Is your account drawing people to or away from God?
Is God calling you to be even more loud for Him on your Instagram? Maybe He wants you start a blog or ministry like this one. Either way, you can be multiplying the POSITIVE aspect of Instagram by adding encouraging, edifying, godly content.
