Why I took a social media break & why you might want to try it too!
Lately, I’ve been feeling lighter, freer – more me – and I wanted to share why.
I decided to take a social media break. No scrolling, no posting, no worrying about engagement or algorithms. Just me, my art, and a whole lot of breathing space.
Why? Because I had been feeling sad (maybe you read my last post about losing someone who had a big impact on my life) and… Although I love connecting with you and social media can be fun, it also requires a lot of energy and sometimes leaves me feeling empty…
And also because I have a delightful boisterous puppy called Kiki (ie: Lilith has taken my life over, my sleep and sanity!!! SEND HELP!!!). She is 6 months old now and she is adorable but it’s been quite an adjustment, one my other dog Elliot is still not overly happy with!
But I digress… Let’s go back to social media…
Honestly, I didn’t realise how much I was getting bombarded with new ideas, constantly comparing myself to other artists, and absorbing their styles without even meaning to. Inspiration is wonderful, but when it starts drowning out your own voice, it can be exhausting. I needed to step back to truly hear myself again.
And wow – what a relief it has been! No pressure to post, no stress about making reels, no wondering if my work fits the latest trends. Just creating for the pure joy of it.
Photo by Nathan McBride on Unsplash
In this space of quiet, I’ve reconnected with my playful side. The part of me that loves making joyful, sparkly, vibrant art. And yes, that includes glitter – because it makes me ridiculously happy! I know some people might say glitter isn’t “serious art,” but I’ve decided I don’t care. My art is about joy, wonder, and self-expression, and that’s what truly matters.
If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, uninspired, or pressured by social media, I encourage you to take a step back too. Even for a short while. See how it feels to create just for you. You might be surprised by what comes through.
And don’t worry – I’m not disappearing! I’ll be back in your inbox next week, sharing the exciting, vibrant paintings I’ve been working on. I can’t wait to show you what’s been coming to life in my studio.
Until then, take a deep breath, follow what makes you happy, and maybe – just maybe – add a little glitter 
xx mimi
PS: Leave a comment below if you’ve done this or plan on doing it!
Thank you for your fabulous words Mimi! My 61-year-old son had a very bad stroke a year ago and is in a home now totally disabled. He can’t talk walk eat, I totally know what you’re feeling even though he’s still with me I spent 6 to 7 hours a day with him and go home at night to work on my junk journals. It’s the only thing that keeps me sane I think. You are so right about writing and painting and collaging. It helps me get out of my sadness and misery and hopelessness. You hang in there as I am doing. Life is for living and we can only do our best. Much love and peace to you. By the way, your dogs are darling and I love watching your videos!
Dear Loretta, what an incredible situation to be in! I really, really feel for you and your son!! Is he able to hear and understand you? I cannot imagine how crushing this must be for you, I am so sorry… But I am so glad to hear you are finding some comfort through art. For me, even just glueing bits of paper onto a big piece of paper is a relief because it allows my brain to relax for a little while. After that, I feel a little lighter, and I hope you do too! Thank you so much for watching my videos, I hope you saw the one I just released last night, it might take you on a quick holiday
Sending lots of hugs and love out to you Loretta xxooo mimi
Hi, Mimi! Your words about being bombarded with new ideas rings true to me too. It gets overwhelming sometimes! Cant wait to see what you’ve created! And your puppy is so adorable! Hope Elliott learns to love his little sister. Hes such a handsome boy!
Thank you for your lovely compliments, I will let the kiddos know
Being overwhelmed with new ideas can be just as powerful as having no ideas… If you feel that way, avoid social media for a while and only look at your art. Only paint what you feel like and see how that goes? It helped me find clarity!