We’re constantly told to “show up”, “be more human”, and “share more of ourselves” if we want to connect with our audience.
But what happens if you’re an introvert and the thought of sharing personal stories makes you want to crawl into a small, quiet cupboard?
You’re not alone.
In fact, a client of mine recently almost stopped posting altogether because of it.
She knew the value of personal posts. She understood that showing her personality would help her audience relate to her.
But she didn’t want the spotlight on her. She wanted the focus to stay on her audience.
She also didn’t want to share photos of her kids—or post anything that felt too raw or invasive.
And honestly? I get it.
But for me, personal content doesn’t have to mean “sharing everything.”
It just means showing enough that people can see the real human behind the business.
For this particular client, this meant zooming in. Instead of forcing herself to tell big, emotional stories, we started with everyday moments. Like taking her kids for a drive through town and pointing out the project she was working on because community is a core value for her. A simple moment that showed what she cares about, without oversharing.
For me, personal content has looked like noticing what my kids pick from the servo snack aisle and using that to talk about purchasing behaviours.
Again, nothing dramatic. Just human.
How to create personal content (without oversharing)
If you’re an introvert (or just a private person), here’s a simple framework to help you find and share the right kind of personal stories:
1. Start with your values
Think about what matters to you, and to your audience.
Family? Freedom? Growth? Community? Curiosity?
Anchor your stories around those values.
2. Look for everyday moments
You don’t need grand gestures.
Often the best stories come from tiny moments:
- A conversation at the coffee shop
- A walk around your neighbourhood
- A win (or a wobble) in your work day
3. Daily journalling
Keep a quick note each day of what you’re grateful for, or something you’ve learned.
(Admittedly, I resisted this for a long time—I’m not a natural journaler. But my memory is shocking, and it’s been such a useful way to track what’s happening and what’s feeling important.) These tiny observations often turn into great story seeds.
4. Look at your data
Not sure what your audience wants to hear from you? Look at what’s already resonating.
Check your post insights, your emails, and your DMs. See what’s getting reactions, shares, or comments. Then use that feedback to shape your next month of content. Data is your friend, not your dictator.
5. Ask: What’s the takeaway?
Every story you share should have a purpose—something your audience can relate to, reflect on, or learn from.
It’s not just about you. It’s about what your story unlocks for them.
6. Protect your boundaries
Not everything needs to be shared. It’s okay to keep your kids, your relationships, or your personal struggles off the internet. Choose what feels comfortable, and stick to it.
A simple prompt to help you
When you’re stuck, try asking yourself:
👉 What’s one ordinary moment from this week that reflects something I believe in?
👉 What did it make me realise?
👉 How can I link it back to my work or my audience’s world?
That’s where the gold is. Great personal content isn’t about being loud. It’s about being real.
Quiet, human stories often leave the biggest mark.
