🤷♀️ How Much Is Enough? — Leaving Instagram & Right-Sizing Your Work with Nicole Antoinette
Oct 11, 2023
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In a engaging conversation, Nicole Antoinette, an author and long-distance hiker, shares her journey of stepping back from social media to prioritize mental health and well-being. She opens up about the struggles of being self-employed and the importance of knowing when to let go of projects. Nicole emphasizes intuitive decision-making and explores what it truly means to have 'enough' in life and work. She also discusses her shift from Instagram to email communication, highlighting the benefits of focus and authenticity in a creator's journey.
The podcast emphasizes the importance of mental health for self-employed individuals, advocating for breaks to prevent burnout and promote wellbeing.
Listeners are encouraged to explore alternative, authentic methods of client engagement that don't depend on social media for business growth.
The conversation highlights the value of embracing uncertainty in entrepreneurship, promoting resilience through continuous experimentation and reevaluation in one's journey.
Deep dives
The Power of Language and Cultural Immersion
The episode highlights the significance of language as a connector and transformative tool, emphasizing how immersion can enhance learning. The Sobre Mesa Institute in Barcelona is introduced as a platform that merges language with cultural experiences, providing attendees with curated workshops and opportunities to engage with local artists. These immersive experiences aim to not only boost Spanish fluency but also enrich participants' understanding of Barcelona's creative communities. This innovative approach demonstrates how learning a language can go beyond traditional methods, fostering a deeper cultural appreciation.
Building a Business Without Social Media
The discussion addresses the challenges of operating a successful business in today's digital landscape without relying on social media platforms. The host shares valuable insights into alternative methods of client engagement and business growth that prioritize authentic connections and energy management. Emphasizing radical generosity, the conversation serves as a guide for small business owners seeking to sever their dependence on social media while still thriving. This exploration of less conventional business strategies invites listeners to rethink their approach to client interactions and marketing.
Navigating the Mental Health Landscape
The episode tackles the intersection of mental health and creative work, reflecting on the host's personal struggles with depression and burnout in the context of self-employment. It encourages listeners to recognize the signs of mental health crises and the importance of acknowledging one's feelings, even in a work-driven environment. Conversations highlight the need for taking breaks and making substantial changes in one's work-life balance to prioritize mental wellness. By sharing personal experiences, the episode underscores the significance of vulnerability and honesty in professional journeys.
The Journey of Content Creation and Authenticity
Throughout the conversation, the complexities of content creation in the digital age are examined, especially in relation to self-promotion and authenticity. The guest reflects on the pressures of presenting a perfect online persona while grappling with personal well-being and self-worth. This leads to a broader discussion on the risks of comparing oneself to others and the impact of societal expectations on one's creative process. Listeners are inspired to embrace their unique paths while considering how to express themselves authentically in their work.
Embracing Change and Uncertainty in Business
As the episode concludes, a significant focus is placed on the importance of accepting uncertainty in the entrepreneurial journey. The discussion encourages listeners to take small, actionable steps rather than seeking immediate clarity about their future business paths. It posits that navigating the ebb and flow of business and personal life is a continual process of experimentation and reevaluation. This mindset fosters resilience and adaptability, allowing individuals to thrive even amid challenges and changes.
How do we actually tend to our wellbeing & burn-out when we’re self-employed? And what happens to our businesses when we step back to heal?
Today I’m joined by a writer, podcaster, self-employed creator & community gatherer that I’ve long admired — Nicole Antoinette.
This year Nicole has gone through a period of shutting down almost all of the longest-running parts of her business in order to tend to her mental health and well-being.
In the process, she’s been in a period of deep inquiry about what it means to run a tiny business, when to let our beloved creations end, and how to feel like we have enough in our work and our lives.
She also left Instagram! Tune in to our conversation for—
A permission slip to step back from your business
Ways to navigate periods of contraction in your work