The idea of taking social media breaks will likely send most small business/brand owners into a panic attack.

I know that MY immediate thought when I think about taking a break from my socials is “I can’t,” and then as I think more, it turns into a buzzing swarm of thoughts that all begin with “I can’t…”

I can’t stop posting; I’ll lose my following.
I can’t post less, the social media “gods” will punish me!
I can’t stay off social media, my readers will notice.
If I stop posting regularly, I’ll lose all the momentum I have.
I can’t skip responding to comments; it will make “them” mad!

I won’t lie to you, taking social media breaks CAN negatively impact what you’ve built. After all, the entire system rewards you for the more time you spend using it. Whether that’s posting, responding to comments, or scrolling and consuming content from other creators. You will see positive growth when you do all of those things; when you don’t, your account will go quiet, and you may see a noticeable decrease in views.

I can see you shaking your head right now and telling me, “This is not helping me want to take a break!”

But I promise the emotional and mental payoff from taking a social media break outweighs any drawbacks.

Head to PrairieWifeInHeels.com to read more about why you may feel a need to take a break from social media. Then learn practical solutions that may help you! 📸 @amandajophotowyo ...

Lots of clapping today as we celebrated these kids. Proud of their academic and athletic achievements this year and grateful for the teachers and coaches that encouraged them! 💜 ...

It’s not any easier when the second child graduates high school. At least it wasn’t for me. There were still tears at pivotal moments, and just like with Cowboy J, I found myself sitting down for a good old-fashioned cry break while preparing for Cowgirl G’s graduation party.

But if I’m being honest, it WAS different.

For me, there was a sense of relief that we made it through this day and can finally move forward with Cowgirl G in a way I didn’t feel with our oldest. I’m not going to rehash everything this brave girl has had to endure. I’ve already shared how the jabs continue to come at our family from people in the community who see us as the bad guys. Those of you who have walked this journey with us know what I mean when I say I’m looking forward to no longer being surrounded by people looking to hurt us.

After tonight’s final award ceremony, I’ll have a few months where I don’t have to walk into a room or event bracing myself for the stares, whispers, side-eyes, and sly pictures being taken (for what purpose, who knows). A few months where I don’t have to sit in the parking lot taking a deep breath before getting out of the car and plastering on a smile.

I’ve learned in the last year that speaking up comes with consequences, but to paraphrase a recent conversation I had with a respected community member, “courage requires sacrifice.” Knowing that speaking up resulted in laws being created that will help protect Wyoming’s children makes the hard moments worth it.

Thank you again to the family, friends, and community members who stood beside us. Your empathy, encouragement, and public support gave us the strength to keep going.

I also want to thank the current and former school district employees who advocated for Cowgirl G over the last few years. I know at times it came at a cost, and the results weren’t always what we hoped for, but you showed her that there are still adults in this world worthy of her trust. ...

Congratulations to Cowgirl G who graduated from high school today. We couldn’t be prouder of her grit, resilience, and determination in the face of adversity. I have no doubt the future holds so much good for her. A huge THANK YOU to all the family, friends, and community members that have helped us get to this moment, we are so grateful for your support! ...