One day I wore pink and took a quick snap on Instagram Stories, using the hashtag #onwednesdayswewearpink. It wasn’t because I’m a fan of Mean Girls, but because it was an easy way for me to show up in this new space on social. I love new things but I am a huge overthinker. So, despite wanting to get on Stories and knowing how great for brands it is, I just couldn’t POST.
And then I did. Just one thing. Once a week. In fact it was basically the same thing. Every Wednesday.
It was kinda embarrassing, and kinda silly, then kinda fun and — spoiler — it kinda changed how I show up in my business! It’s safe to say that over the past (I have no idea) how long of taking part in #pinkwednesdays, I’m surprised at what this very random, very specific thing has taught me.
Done is better than perfect
I started because it was a simple thing for me to do. I could have over-complicated it with some big campaign with a new pink-themed design every week…let’s be honest, that would have failed. I kept it simple, often with the tiniest bit of pink, and didn’t scold myself when I almost forgot. This allowed myself to show up imperfectly and THAT’S OKAY.
Consistency is essential
The ease of this format meant that I could be consistent with it. A quick story with something pink in it? Easy peasy. Consistency has now turned this into a habit. I don’t really even think about it anymore, it’s just what I do on a Wednesday. It’s not scary anymore and more importantly, people associate this with me now. I’ve had DMs, tags and even gifts because someone thought of me when they saw that pink thing. What do you want to be known for — do you show up as that consistently?
It’s not all about business
Running a business is bloody tough! Fact. But you know what…it’s not all about business, all the time. It really shouldn’t be. If you’re anything like me you started your business to get that work-life blend under check. So, show who you are and what you do besides what you do for your job. The world needs to see much, much more of that.
This isn’t about content. This is a lesson in showing up in your brand (and your life) with authenticity, consistency and personality. Who are you really? What do you want to be known for? What small thing could you do regularly and so easily that it becomes a habit?
Pink isn’t MY thing as such. It’s not my favourite colour, Mean Girls is not my favourite film, but this little thing has become something that will always remind me of these three important values. Good job Pink Wednesdays.