We live in a world where information and opinions are everywhere. Good information is really important - having a balance of evidence and experience means we know more, helping us to plan and make decisions. But how do we know what’s good?
I don’t really like social media, I grapple with it quite a lot - I don’t like the bragging or the toxicity and I really don’t like all the self proclaimed experts who are busy selling a nonsense and telling people what to do. It often feels all too much.
In recent years, I have moved away from Facebook and I ran away screaming from TikTok before we were even properly introduced, but I have stuck with Instagram and I try to use it in a way that makes sense to me.
But I fell down a bit of a rabbit hole on Insta this week, to check out other birthy people and the variation of styles and posts was incredible.
There’s a lot of repetition, talking about shoulds and secrets and promises and A LOT of mis-information and people making it sound more complicated than it actually is - and I guess this is what makes them look like an expert.
So, I’ve been reflecting on where I go for information. For me, it’s mainly about websites and podcasts for knowledge and perspective, and using Instagram for inspiration, motivation and reassurance.
How information is presented can also be important - and this is where it becomes subjective. But if someone is ‘performing’, shouting out shoulds, making guarantees and telling us they have all the answers, that’s a no from me.
I’m keen to grow my reputation as a trusted practitioner, as someone who works well with parents and shares an understanding of this time of change.
And that’s why I’m focusing on writing here, with a learning space on my website and developing plans for my podcast. I want to use your time well by sharing information and perspective that is useful and meaningful, along with posing relevant questions so you can think about what you need and what could make a difference to you and your family.
My aim has always been to provide information, support and reassurance to help you prepare, plan and navigate the challenges of early parenting. So I also want you to get to know me as a practitioner, so you trust me and so we can work together.
I’d love to know how you navigate the abundance of information out there, how do you know what is trustworthy and reliable?
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Thanks for reading!