I lost access to my Instagram: A lesson for all business owners

Last week, I experienced something that would make most business owners panic: my Instagram and Facebook accounts vanished without warning. Years of content, connections, and community- gone in an instant. Yet what initially felt like a disaster transformed into one of the most powerful business lessons I've received this year.

The wakeup call we all need 

The numbers are striking: over 80% of businesses rely on social media as their primary marketing channel. Yet, organic reach on platforms like Instagram has plummeted to just 0.6%. Think about that - for every 1,000 followers you have, only six people are engaging with your content.

This isn't just about statistics. It's about recognising a fundamental truth I've always sensed but needed to experience firsthand: we don't own these spaces. Your social media presence, no matter how substantial, exists on borrowed digital land.

What happened when I lost the accounts 

Something beautiful emerged when my social platforms went dark. Our WhatsApp group fot The Circle buzzed with increased activity. LinkedIn conversations deepened. Email exchanges became more meaningful. This wasn't just adaptation…it was transformation.

The experience reminded me of what I've always taught in The Circle: authentic connection transcends any single platform. It's not about where you connect, but how deeply you engage.

Building a future-proof business 

The businesses that will thrive aren't those with the biggest follower counts - they're the ones creating meaningful, multi-platform communities. Here's what this looks like in practice:

1. Own Your Audience – Cultivate an email list or other channels to reach your community directly.

2. Diversify – LinkedIn, TikTok, your website—don’t rely on one platform for your entire business or brand.

3. Build Real Relationships – Ensure you can connect offline or elsewhere. A crash shouldn’t erase your community.

4. Adapt Your Strategy – Social media is just one component. A holistic approach across multiple channels safeguards you.

Final thoughts

Sometimes, what feels like a setback is actually divine redirection. Losing my social media presence taught me that true connection isn't about platforms - it's about presence. It's about creating spaces where genuine relationships can flourish, whether that's through email, community groups, or meaningful content.

As conscious entrepreneurs, our role isn't to chase algorithms but to create lasting impact. When we build our businesses on this foundation, no platform change or technical glitch can shake our core connection with our community.

Remember: your business's strength lies not in your follower count, but in the depth of your relationships and the authenticity of your message.

This shift isn't just about adapting to change - it's about leading it.