Potty training is sh*t but your social media needn’t be

If you've ever tried to potty train a toddler, you know it takes patience, consistency, and more than a few bribes (hello, chocolate buttons).

At the time of writing, I am two days into this journey, and I’ve eaten all the chocolate buttons.

Believe it or not, those same principles apply when you're mentoring someone—or being mentored—on social media marketing.

I’ve worked with creatives at various stages of their digital journey. One pattern I’ve seen time and time again? Social media is a lot like toddler toilet training. Here's why:

Everyone starts somewhere (usually in a mess)

Just like toddlers aren’t born knowing how to use the toilet, no one wakes up knowing how to create engaging reels or write viral posts. Early attempts will be clumsy—there might be some mishaps—but that’s how you learn. Progress is more important than perfection.

Routine is everything

Toddlers thrive on consistency, and so does your audience. Social media growth doesn’t come from one brilliant post—it comes from showing up regularly with relevant and relatable content.

Positive reinforcement works

When my toddler has a successful potty trip, he (and I) celebrate like we’ve won the lottery. I translate this across to social media mentoring – I’ll celebrate milestones with you, no matter how small they are. I know how exciting it is to have a comment on a post, when someone shares your post to their story or to gain your first follower.

Encouragement keeps momentum going.

There will be accidents

Even the most planned-out campaigns can flop. And that’s okay. Whether it’s a post that doesn’t land or a hashtag that backfires, these “accidents” are part of the learning curve. I’ll help you to think about what didn’t work, and what we can try next time.

Eventually, they get It

With the right mix of guidance, independence, and time, toddlers learn to navigate the world without nappies. The same is true for emerging social media marketers. With support from me and consistent effort, you'll start seeing results that feel natural, not forced.

Final thought: you don’t have to do it alone

Just as parents sometimes call in reinforcements (that reminds me – must make another trip to the “hootermarket” (supermarket) for some more chocolate buttons -  social media mentoring is smoother with expert support. I blend strategy, structure and a lot of real-world know-how to help individuals and small businesses grow confidently online.

Whether you're still “potty training” your online voice or looking to scale your strategy, I’ll help you ditch the guesswork and post with purpose.

Ready to make fewer messes and more impact?
Contact me today for mentoring that meets you where you are—and takes you where you want to go.