Losing followers and subs be like…
Let’s be real: losing followers or subscribers feels like a punch to the gut. Whether it’s a dip in YouTube subscribers, Instagram followers, or even email list members, that little number going down can make your heart sink. I’ve been there, and I’m going through it right now. But despite how it feels, I’m choosing to remain optimistic. Here's why I believe losing followers can actually be a positive step forward—even though, in the moment, it doesn’t feel that way.
1. It’s a Natural Part of Growth
One of the first things I had to remind myself is that losing followers is completely natural. It happens to everyone, no matter how big or small their platform. If people are unsubscribing or unfollowing, it’s often because they no longer align with your content or message. And that’s okay!
I’ve realized that my mission—helping leaders take responsibility for their lives and maximize their potential—isn’t for everyone. Some people may have initially followed for a different reason and over time found that my content no longer resonates with them. I’ve come to see this as a positive thing. I want to connect with those who genuinely care about what I offer, and every loss brings me closer to curating an audience that truly aligns with my message.
2. Quality Over Quantity
This lesson hit home: it’s better to have fewer engaged followers than a large number of disengaged ones. Having 100 people who love what I do and are actively learning from my content means more to me than having 1,000 passive subscribers who never watch, engage, or share.
I realized that as I lose subscribers, the ones who stay are the people who are genuinely invested. This shift helps me focus on those who matter most and provides a solid foundation for building long-term relationships. I see some of you respond to the emails each week and I'm grateful for you.
3. It Sparks Reflection and Growth
Losing followers forced me to reflect on my content and approach. It made me ask myself tough questions: Am I still aligned with my original mission? Am I speaking to the right audience? Am I evolving?
I’ve used this time to re-evaluate what I’m putting out into the world. Instead of seeing the losses as a sign of failure, I’m choosing to see them as an opportunity for growth. Sometimes you need a shake-up to assess whether your content is still hitting the mark. For me, that means refining my message and finding ways to connect more deeply with those who resonate with it.
4. It Makes Room for New Opportunities
When people leave, they make space for new followers who are more aligned with where you’re heading. My content, like my own personal journey, is evolving. As I’ve shifted my focus to topics like personal development, leadership, and storytelling, I know that the right people will come. But for that to happen, the wrong people need to move on.
It’s like clearing out a cluttered closet—sometimes, you have to let go of what no longer fits in order to make room for what does. So, I’m looking forward to welcoming new subscribers who are ready for the content I’m creating now.
5. It Builds Resilience
Lastly, losing followers has reminded me that success isn’t a straight line. It’s a series of highs and lows, gains and losses. Going through this dip is making me stronger. It’s teaching me to keep creating even when things aren’t perfect, to stay focused on my mission, and to remain patient.
Resilience is something every leader needs, and this challenge is just another opportunity to build it. I’m trusting that if I keep putting in the work, the right people will come back—and they’ll bring others with them.
Final Thoughts: Staying Hopeful
Right now, I’m choosing to see this temporary setback as part of a much bigger picture. Every loss is leading me closer to my true audience—the ones who want to grow, learn, and take action in their own lives. The followers I’m losing aren’t a reflection of my worth, my content, or my potential. They’re just part of the process.
So if you’re going through something similar, I encourage you to stay hopeful. Keep showing up. Keep refining your message. The right audience is out there, and they’re on their way. This journey isn’t just about numbers; it’s about impact—and that’s what really matters in the end.
Javonne
#noexcusetoday