After celebrating her 34th birthday on Sunday, SA’s ‘First Lady’, Rachel Kolisi, took to Instagram to open up about her views on social media sharing, and why she chose to ‘go public’ with her accounts initially.
The Springbok wife, along with her husband and the rest of the Springbok players and their partners, have been at the centre of the public eye even before South Africa’s Springboks claimed their fourth Rugby World Cup victory.
After celebrating her 34th birthday on Sunday, Rachel took to Instagram to open up about her feelings towards sharing on social media after experiencing a bout of self-doubt regarding sharing online.
The CEO, wife, mom, and student often keeps her fans and followers abreast with the family’s life. Rachel shares glimpses of their journey of moving to Paris and starting a new life there, and recently shared snippets from the family’s recent holiday, skiing in the Alps.
However, Rachel’s most recent post features a snap of the first lady herself, along with a caption expressing her feelings towards sharing on social media, detailing a recent bout of anxiety and self-doubt.
View this post on Instagram
The post reads:
“This week, I noticed I that my followers on instagram had dropped significantly. My brain immediately started spiralling. Am I posting too much? Am I not posting enough? Should I put more effort into my aesthetic? Should I ask my followers what they want to see more of, or less of. And a million other questions.”
Rachel goes on to explain her decision to stay true to herself, especially when sharing on social media.
“After a wild moment of questioning and doubting myself. I reflected on why I opened my social media, and chose to keep it public. The first and most important rule I always had for myself was to share who I am. Not to try be, or look like anyone else. And to not fear being vulnerable.”
“I would rather have people relate to me, than wish to be me.”
Kolisi’s honesty and ‘upfront-ness’ on social media has been a beacon of inspiration for many of her fans and followers who relate to Rachel’s posts about the challenges in finding your feet in a new country, and the realistic side of being a mom, a wife, businesswoman.
Continuing in her post, Rachel elaborates on her intention to stay authentic on social media:
“This reflection brought a lot of clarity and peace. I’ve never cared how many followers I have, or who follows me (until that crazy moment) but, what I do on these platforms is true to me. This is really just a reminder for me, but also thank you to so many of you who have been so kind, helpful and gentle in a year that has been completely life changing and challenging.”
The caption ends:
“I know many of you are new here, hi and welcome to the ride! This is 34 year old me, and while I’m passionate about learning, growing and just being a better human, I’m also just Rachel. ❤️ Thank you for all the birthday love. Love ya x”
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Feature Image: Instagram / @rachelkolisi
