Algorithms aren't your friend
Creative Block → 011
Creative Block is a weekly newsletter that gives you a glimpse into my life, creativity, design, and music. It's like a little pick-me-up that you get delivered straight to your inbox each week.
In the age of social media, algorithms reign supreme. They silently observe our every move, analyzing our likes, saves, and preferences to curate a personalized feed. However, let's not be fooled into thinking that these algorithms have our best interests at heart. They are far from friendly companions on our digital journey.
These algorithms don't care about the effort you poured into that captivating post or the countless hours dedicated to crafting a compelling video. In fact, the algorithms have no vested interest in your hard work, creativity, or the number of followers you've amassed. Instead, they serve a different master: engagement and profitability. These social media platforms own your followers, and the only currency you possess is the content you create. It's like you’re renting a digital space, hoping to generate enough returns to surpass the costs incurred.
Take a moment to reflect on this reality. You are essentially leasing your presence on social media, offering your content in exchange for exposure. The algorithms decide who sees your posts and when, shaping the visibility of your creations. It's a precarious balancing act where your success is at the mercy of algorithms that prioritize popularity over substance.
That's precisely why you often come across videos where the music seems mismatched. Content creators hope that by using a "trending song," the algorithm will take notice and push their video to a wider audience, potentially making it go viral. It's a strategic move aimed at leveraging the algorithm's preferences to increase visibility and reach on the platform.
Whether it's through advertising, sponsored posts, or other monetization strategies, your presence on social media comes with a price tag. While you pour your heart and soul into creating exceptional content, the algorithms remain indifferent. Their primary concern lies in capturing and retaining user attention. You're left at the mercy of ever-changing algorithms, hoping that your posts will surface to reach your desired audience.
I have 129k followers on Instagram and on a good day my posts reaches 7k-10k people. That’s roughly 6-8% of my followers.
I used to check my professional dashboard on Instagram weekly, but it became overwhelming. Last summer, one of my reels had 500k views and I gained over 14k followers in just three days. However, nearly a year has passed, and I haven't achieved those levels of views on a reel since. I knew I got lucky. Although this reel was dope (if I do say so myself), the algorithm gave me some type of success so I could keep chasing that high. I’m so glad I didn’t.
Here’s the reel if you’re curious :)
Anyway, here's how I'm currently navigating the world of social media.
* Authenticity above all:
Focus on sharing your passions and your unique perspective. Don't let the algorithms dictate your content. Post when you want. Post what you’re proud of. Stay true to yourself and connect with like-minded individuals who appreciate your genuine contributions to whatever field you’re in.
* Cultivate genuine connections:
Instead of chasing vanity metrics and follower counts, invest in building meaningful relationships. Engage with your community, spark conversations, and foster connections that extend beyond the algorithmic boundaries.
* Diversify your digital presence:
Don't rely solely on social media platforms as your online home. Consider establishing a website or blog where you have full control over your content and audience. Explore alternative channels to reach your audience and reduce your dependence on algorithmic whims. This is why I started
on . My newsletter goes to everyone who has subscribed and from then on it’s their decision to read or not to read. No middle man algorithm. I have direct access to my audience.→Introducing CUBES* :
A curated Playlist for the Creative Block* Community and creatives alike.
What is CUBES*?
CUBES is a monthly curated playlist that sets your imagination free through colorful rhythms. It's a space where creative blocks crumble and inspiration effortlessly takes shape. I’m hoping through this playlist the melodies can reshape and reignite your creativity.
In the ever-changing realm of creativity, "Cubes" has the potential to transform into something new or bigger in the future. Maybe it'll become a podcast or an insightful interview-style newsletter, separate from Creative Block. But for now I think it’s a cool title for the playlists especially since artwork covers are a the shape of a cube (square).
The possibilities are endless for what this could become, and I’m open to ideas on how CUBES can go beyond just a “playlist”.
Also, shout out to
for the suggesting ‘CUBES’ as a name. I wanted something that would make sense with the whole Creative Block* theme.→Artist to know
Sherie | an amazing violinist and Singer
Magdiel Lopez | an amazing designer. His posters are out of this world.
Objects & Vases by Andrewfootit | a set of objects made using Illustrator 3d tool
→What I Watched
The Age of Influence on HULU
Black Mirror Season 6 on Netflix
The Blackening in Select Theatres (Hilariously funny especially if you grew up black)
Love this! I remember starting my creative career and thinking all that existed were these algorithms and how I HAD to feed them. It was all a lie. People are much more important. I started by meeting as many of them as I could and it has only made a positive change to my life. Humans over algorithms at all times! Thanks for this!
"Post when you want. Post what you’re proud of." Great advice! it's so easy to become slaves of the algorithm, we forget to enjoy creating work we love.