Why I Started a New Instagram Account (And What You Can Learn From It)

If you’ve been following me for a while, you might have noticed something big—I decided to retire my beloved @Kaylynn.Priest Instagram account and start completely fresh with a brand-new handle. Why? Because growth sometimes requires bold moves, and this was a step that aligned with my vision for the future.

In this post, I’m breaking down why I made this decision, what I’ve learned from it so far, and how you can use these insights to refine your own Instagram and business strategy.

The Backstory: Why I Needed a Fresh Start

For years, my Instagram journey evolved alongside my business. I started as an Etsy seller, transitioned into coaching product-based businesses, and then expanded into mentoring service providers and entrepreneurs looking to scale. My content shifted, my audience changed, and over time, I realized that my Instagram was no longer fully aligned with where I wanted to go.

Signs It Was Time for a New Instagram Account:

1. My audience was mixed, and engagement was inconsistent. Many followers had joined when I was focused solely on Etsy, but their needs had shifted—or they were no longer actively engaged.
2. I wanted to clarify my message and attract my ideal audience. My niche expanded beyond product sellers, and I needed to ensure I was speaking directly to the right people.
3. Growth had stalled. Despite consistent content, I wasn’t seeing the reach and engagement I wanted, likely due to outdated follower demographics and Instagram’s algorithm.
4. I craved a fresh energy shift. Sometimes, the best way to create momentum is to start fresh with intention.

What I’ve Learned From Starting Over

1. Your Followers Should Align With Your Future, Not Just Your Past

If your audience no longer reflects the direction your brand is heading, it may be time to realign. Having thousands of followers doesn’t matter if they’re not engaged or interested in your current content. Quality beats quantity every time.

2. Growth Becomes Easier When Messaging is Crystal Clear

With my new account, I’m able to speak directly to my dream clients—entrepreneurs who want to be known as thought leaders, grow their audience, and create impactful businesses. When you tailor your messaging to the right people, engagement and connection come naturally.

3. Starting Over Doesn’t Mean Losing—It Means Gaining

Letting go of an old Instagram account felt intimidating at first. But rather than focusing on “losing” followers, I shifted my mindset to gaining the right people. This fresh start has allowed me to build an engaged, aligned audience from the ground up.

4. The Algorithm Favors Fresh, High-Engagement Accounts

Instagram prioritizes engagement over follower count, meaning a smaller but highly active audience will often perform better than an old, stagnant account. I’ve already noticed better reach and interaction since launching my new profile.

What You Can Learn From My Experience

If you’re feeling stuck, stagnant, or like your Instagram presence isn’t reflecting your business anymore, consider these questions:

• Is your current audience actively engaging with your content?
• Are your followers aligned with your future business goals?
• Would a fresh start allow you to show up more boldly and authentically?

While starting a brand-new account isn’t the right move for everyone, making strategic shifts in your content, messaging, or branding can reignite your growth.

Bold Moves Lead to Big Growth

The decision to start fresh on Instagram was about choosing alignment over comfort. Growth requires change, and I’m excited to see where this new journey takes me.

If you’re ready to level up your business and brand visibility, I invite you to follow my new Instagram journey @KaylynnPriest—where I’m sharing everything I learn about marketing, audience growth, and building a business with impact.

Have you ever considered making a bold move like this? Let me know!