A LinkedIn post by psychologist Olga Vlachynská has set social media buzzing, with many questioning the appropriateness of sharing a personal moment of breastfeeding while drinking beer on the professional networking platform.
An Unconventional Post for LinkedIn
In the post, which she shared to reflect on her New Year’s resolution and the decade gone by, Vlachynská posted a decade-old photo of herself drinking beer from a bottle while breastfeeding her baby. The image, taken during her time in Thailand, was accompanied by a reflection on her personal growth, including her long breastfeeding journey and her first solo vacation in 12 years. In the post, she humorously declared that “reproduction” was behind her, and the focus now was on “intellectual orgies” and making money.
Public Reactions: Mixed Views on Drinking and Breastfeeding
The post, which went viral after being shared on Reddit’s “LinkedIn Lunatics” community, prompted a wave of reactions. While some praised the photo as a relatable moment for mothers who understand the timing and safety around alcohol consumption while breastfeeding, others were concerned about the decision to share such an image on LinkedIn. One Reddit user remarked, “Technically, if you’re going to drink while nursing, the best time is while you’re actively nursing,” acknowledging the safety of such an action if done correctly. However, many questioned the appropriateness of showcasing such a personal moment on a platform known for professional networking.
Breastfeeding and Alcohol: A Discussion on Safety and Timing
Several commenters weighed in, providing a perspective on the safety of consuming small amounts of alcohol while breastfeeding. One person noted that the timing of alcohol consumption is crucial, as alcohol does not transfer immediately to the milk. Others shared their experiences, pointing out that some lactation consultants recommend specific types of beer for milk production, emphasising the harmlessness of a small amount of beer.
LinkedIn Becoming More Like Instagram?
Another observation that sparked debate was the growing trend of personal, Instagram-style posts appearing on LinkedIn. Many noted that LinkedIn’s professional tone was being blurred, with more personal moments, such as Vlachynská’s post, appearing on the platform. One commenter noted, “There are more and more Instagram-type posts on LinkedIn now,” reflecting the shift in how users approach the platform.
The Bigger Picture: Is LinkedIn Losing Its Professional Edge?
While the controversy over breastfeeding and beer may have sparked more conversations about parenting, it also highlights a growing trend of personal content creeping into spaces traditionally reserved for professional discourse. This incident serves as a reminder that platforms like LinkedIn are evolving, and users are increasingly bringing aspects of their personal lives into their professional personas. Whether this is a positive development or a shift away from LinkedIn’s original intent remains to be seen.