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Do you know that feeling as a business owner when someone tells you to “show up more” on social media and “be the real you”? Yep, I see you cringing already. Just reading that might bring on a cold sweat, followed by the dreaded thought: Where do I even start? It’s overwhelming, and let’s be honest—stalking your competitors (who, of course, look like they have it all figured out) doesn’t help either.We live in an era where platforms like Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and LinkedIn are a huge part of business, and the pressure to show up is real. But let’s be honest—who even invented social media, and why did they decide we all need to share our faces? Back in the day, businesses thrived without selfies, so why does it feel non-negotiable now?
Here’s the thing: times have changed, and social media is now a part of our daily lives, whether we like it or not. Instead of resisting it, we can learn to embrace it in a way that feels natural and even enjoyable. Showing up online doesn’t have to feel awkward or overwhelming. It doesn’t have to be all Grinch and no joy. Let me share some tips to make showing up on social media not just manageable—but dare I say, even fun.
1. Start Small (No, Even Smaller Than That)
You don’t need to go from zero to daily Instagram Stories overnight. Start with baby steps. Here’s how:
Post a behind-the-scenes shot. Show your workspace, a client project, or your morning coffee ritual.
Use a caption that feels like you. Forget polished perfection—talk like you would to a friend.
Try showing up in a way that feels safe. If a full-on selfie is too much, start with a photo of your hands at work or a silhouette shot.
Over time, what once felt terrifying will start to feel second nature. You might even (gasp!) enjoy it.
2. Reframe the Spotlight Anxiety
One of the biggest fears business owners have is feeling like they’re “showing off.” But visibility isn’t about vanity—it’s about trust. Your audience isn’t judging your every move; they’re just looking for someone they connect with.
Instead of thinking, Ugh, I have to post about myself again, try:
How can I help someone today?
What would I say if I were chatting with a customer in real life?
How can I make this fun for me?
When you focus on connection over perfection, showing up becomes way easier (and way less awkward).
3. Make It Fun (Yes, Really)
Social media doesn’t have to feel like homework. Find ways to make it enjoyable:
Use humor. If you feel awkward, call it out! “POV: Me trying to look natural in a photo but actually looking like a deer in headlights.”
Experiment with different formats. Hate selfies? Try a time-lapse of you working or a fun GIF instead.
Create a series. Make “Tuesday Tips” or “Behind-the-Scenes Friday” a thing to take the pressure off daily creativity.
When social media stops feeling like a chore, you’re more likely to stick with it.
4. Lean on Brand Photography (Aka, Your Secret Weapon)
You knew I’d mention this at some point, right? 😉 But hear me out: Having a bank of professional yet relaxed brand images makes showing up so much easier.
Imagine this—you wake up, need to post something, and instead of panicking, you grab a gorgeous photo of yourself looking confident and approachable. No last-minute selfies, no stress. Just a quick caption and done.
Brand photography gives you that visual consistency that makes your social presence feel effortless. And bonus: No more overthinking whether your phone camera is your friend (spoiler: it’s usually not).
5. Let Go of Perfection (Because No One Else Cares)
Nobody’s expecting you to be flawless. In fact, people connect more with real than polished.
Give yourself permission to:
Post even when your hair isn’t perfect.
Share even if you don’t have a profound caption.
Show up even when you feel a bit awkward.
Done is better than perfect. Every time.
Ready to Break Free?
Social media doesn’t have to feel like an obligation or an anxiety-inducing performance. It can be a tool that helps you connect, grow, and actually enjoy running your business. And the best part? It doesn’t have to feel staged or forced.
That’s where brand photography comes in. My natural, relaxed style is designed to help you show up as you—genuine, confident, and completely at ease. No stiff poses, no forced smiles, just images that make showing up online feel effortless. Because when your visuals feel right, social media stops being a chore and starts being a place where your business truly shines and thrives.
So, let’s ditch the fear and make this fun. What’s one small way you can show up today?
And if you want brand photos that make showing up online easier, you know where to find me. 😉
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