A creative struggling with Instagram's algorithm shared their frustration about low engagement despite having a decent following. The community chimed in with similar experiences, revealing a widespread feeling of invisibility on the platform. The algorithm has shifted to prioritize engagement, often pushing users to pay for visibility. Illustrator Liam Richards pointed out that the system is designed to favor engagement metrics over genuine connection, which can undermine a creator's confidence. Ceramics artist Elif Cesur highlighted the sense of exhaustion that comes from watching one's work become less visible, despite having an organic audience. Graphic designer Nvard Yerkanian noted that personal posts, like selfies, tend to perform better than art, which can feel disheartening for creatives. Experts recommend reframing the relationship with Instagram. Instead of seeking validation through likes and comments, artists should focus on their creativity and the intrinsic value of their work. Sarah Rosado emphasized that talent remains unchanged regardless of how the algorithm behaves. Practical advice from contributors includes treating Instagram as a tool rather than a validation source. Brand designer Zanne Designz suggested posting without worrying too much about engagement, as views can still be high even with a small following. Other creatives recommend building real relationships outside the platform and using Instagram more like a portfolio. Dennis Cook advised seeing it as a means to tell one’s story rather than a measure of success. Ultimately, while Instagram's priorities have shifted, the quality of work and the connections artists form remain vital to their creative journeys.