Back to the Myspace and DeviantArt days. I had 11 followers on DeviantArt – all art college peers. Back then, social media was about sharing, not this race for influencer stardom and finding thousands of viewership. Surely, that ought to be a byproduct of sharing something others enjoy, finding others who resonate with it.

Fast forward, and things have changed. Social media is still a tool for sharing, but when did we start obsessing over viral success, highlight reels, and this once-a-week posting mentality? The platform's there for us, but it's not just about sharing anymore; it's about building a brand.

Lately, I've felt this subtle pressure to share more, to be part of the YouTube and Instagram scene. It's a slow shift that's got me thinking. How do I find my tribe without falling into the clickbait and hustle culture?

In the middle of this online chaos, I'm wrestling with expressing my art authentically. Wolves in my paintings? They represent the lone wolf finding a new pack, a nod to belonging even against our instincts. And those maze heads? They're my way of visually communicating the ongoing journey of self-discovery.

So, here's the real question: How do I make sure my message gets through on social media without drowning in the clickbait madness? How do I stick to my vision without getting lost in the hustle?

In a world where the pressure to fit the influencer mold is relentless, I'm all about keeping the authenticity of my craft alive. It's a journey of self-discovery and connection, a process of embracing the lone wolf within while reaching out to those who vibe with the emotions in my art.

As I navigate this social media maze, I'm choosing not to lose myself in the hustle but to find my tribe in the midst of the chaos. It's a journey, and I'd love for you to join me as I rediscover the essence of sharing in a world obsessed with the spotlight. Community over fame, real people, real connections—not just numbers. Although, admittedly, this does scare me a bit due to my neurodivergence. Is it just numbers in disguise, and can I truly connect on that level?

But maybe it can be simple. I paint something, find fun ways to share it with the world, and call myself an artist or whatever. Perhaps it is that simple, but I wish to shed the fear and get my work out into the real world. I'm thinking of inventive ways to do this—silly little magnets left on lampposts or in places that would brighten someone's day. We have enough litter; why not art that can be kept and taken home as a keepsake? I have all these ideas, and time feels like a fleeting companion. With social media, it doesn't have to be perfect, fit a particular style, or mimic what came before. It just has to be me. I just need to figure out what that looks like for me personally. I hope this inspires you to do the same.