Erotic self-presentation is an important aspect of influencer work that involves creating and sharing content related to sex, sexuality, intimacy, and relationships. Influencers often share photos, videos, stories, and experiences that are designed to attract attention, build a following, and establish themselves as experts in their field.
This can lead to burnout and digital fatigue, which can negatively impact influencers' mental health and productivity.
Burnout refers to a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged exposure to stressors. It can manifest itself through feelings of disengagement, cynicism, detachment, and resignation. Digital fatigue refers to the feeling of being overwhelmed by technology, social media, and online communication.
Research has shown that influencers who engage in erotic self-presentations may experience increased levels of burnout and digital fatigue due to the demanding nature of their jobs. Creating and posting content that is provocative or explicit can be emotionally taxing, particularly if it requires multiple takes or editing. The constant need to maintain a certain level of appearance or performance can also contribute to feelings of pressure and anxiety.
Responding to comments and messages from followers can be time-consuming and draining.
The expectation to always be available and responsive can add to the burden of managing one's brand and reputation online. This can lead to a sense of isolation and loneliness, as influencers may feel cut off from real-life interactions and support systems.
Some influencers find that erotic self-presentation can help them connect with their audience and build trust and loyalty. By sharing personal experiences and stories, they create a more authentic and relatable connection with their followers.
This can also result in an increased risk of harassment, cyberbullying, and negative attention, which can further exacerbate feelings of burnout and fatigue.
To prevent burnout and digital fatigue related to erotic self-presentation, influencers should prioritize self-care practices such as exercise, meditation, therapy, and rest. They should also establish clear boundaries around their work, setting limits on when and how much they post, and taking breaks from social media. Collaborating with colleagues and peers can also provide emotional support and alleviate some of the pressures associated with solo work.
Erotic self-presentations require careful consideration and planning to ensure that they do not negatively impact influencers' mental health and wellbeing. By balancing creativity and productivity with self-care and personal fulfillment, influencers can maintain a sustainable and rewarding career in the industry.
How do erotic self-presentations intersect with burnout and digital fatigue among influencers?
Influencers face multiple challenges regarding their online presence due to increasing levels of burnout and digital fatigue, which can negatively impact their ability to successfully present themselves sexually on social media platforms. Burnout refers to an exhaustion syndrome that affects individuals who continuously experience high levels of stress from their professional lives (Huang et al. , 2019).