As a business owner, it’s easy to feel helpless and even guilty for trying to promote your business while the world is going through so much. Social media, in particular, can feel like it’s feeding a constant pressure to keep up, keep posting, and keep promoting. But here’s the thing – you’re not alone in feeling this way. Many of us, myself included, have felt the weight of what’s happening in the world.
I want you to know – it’s okay to take a step back if you need to.
Social media is a huge part of digital marketing, and it’s also an aspect of digital marketing that can give a lot of small business owners stress. When you become so focused on content pillars, content creation, scheduling, hashtags… it is easily overwhelming, even on a good day! And when the world is struggling with humanitarian crises? Well, for me at least, posting on social media feels forced and meaningless.
If you feel like this, too, just know that you don’t have to push yourself to keep up with the frantic pace of social media. If you need to hear it from someone else, I want to give you permission – the permission to take a step back, breathe, and focus on what matters most: your mental health and the well-being of those around you. I want to assure you that it’s okay to put your social media or email marketing on hold, even if it’s just for a few days or a few weeks. Your business will not crumble because you took a moment to recalibrate, gather your thoughts, and find clarity in the midst of chaos.
It’s okay to step back, take a moment for yourself, and protect your own well-being and mental health. This might look like taking some time to mourn and grieve with friends and family or check in on those around you who are feeling the weight, too. It may look like taking the time and effort to call your state reps or contributing to humanitarian organizations you feel aligned with (we have some posted down below). It might look like taking a break from social media altogether, or it might look like addressing it publicly as you see fit.
Whatever you may choose to do, just remember that it is essential to take care of yourself. Your well-being matters. Your mental health matters. Your peace of mind matters. Your empathy and understanding of the world’s challenges matter. It’s crucial to acknowledge your feelings and honor them. So, do what feels right for you. Take that step back, embrace the quiet, and focus on what truly matters. Your business can wait – your well-being cannot.
Alliance for Middle East Peace (ALMEP)