The Next Big Thing: The 2019 Distraction

In January, everyone is feeling energised and ready to act. New goals. More growth. Let’s smash it!

These calls to action are going to dominate everyone’s social media (and minds) for about two months.

I love the energy of planning ahead and calibrating my intentions and making committments. However, I’ve also noticed how each year, there is another big thing everyone wants to be on top of, nevermind what it is, from dieting to Facebook LIVEs.

I am wondering when will self-care, mindfulness and worm farms become the next big thing (haha!).

The next big thing in 2019 is videos.

By the way, did you know that this was the next big thing also in 1927, when the first electronic television was invented.

In September 2011, when Snapchat first launched, video and live streaming became the next big thing.

In 2012, Vine ‘took over’ the video world to later shut down in 2016.

This next big thing is actually an old thing.

Our obsession with ineffective cookie cutter solutions and quick fixes is damaging our work and mental health.

‘But videos is how people connect‘ – I hear many say – ‘I’ve seen so many great videos on Facebook. It looks really good. I should do it‘ – many continue.

How connected do you feel to the people advertising cars and soaps on TV?

Videos isn’t how people connect.

Trust, common goals and purpose is how people connect.

You have an effective solution to someone’s difficult problem. And they desperately need your help. Thisis why you connect.

The next big thing is an emotionally hyped term used by marketers and business owners who are confused or have nothing of value to share.

We really don’t need more content with the “Read more” button. Most of the blogs, videos and eDMs are filled with ineffective tactics desperately trying to get people to click, download or book.

Don’t fall for the next big thing. But rather focus on your aligned solution.

You have something of great value that others want. You can ease their pain by solving their problem. Don’t worry about lead magnets, webinars or videos. Focus on getting to talk to your ideal target market via as little effort and steps as possible. One short pathway I can think of is a phone call.

A new year often feels new and refreshed. And while you might have rested and indeed feel new and refreshed, your core values [hopefully] remained the same.

Videos, webinars, eDMs or Facebook boosts – among many other digital tools – make up your tool box and can help you get to the goals you are after. However, screwdrivers remain that – screwdrivers. And we don’t always need a screwdriver, sometimes it’s entirely different tools.

I am very concerned with the next big thing mindset – it is confusing many talented and well-meaning people. The next big thing is a distraction.

Making videos doesn’t bring more sales and it’s not sustainable – it’s just the next big distraction.

What does bring sales, donations and engagement, and I suggest you focus on, is your strategy, your goals, your work and your mission.

Videos might come into play at some stage in your strategic planning but it should never be the focus of your work.

Focus on your talents and the people you are helping – this is the ultimate big thing and it doesn’t change from year to year.

P.S. Whenever you are ready… here how I can help you leverage social media technology to really power your mission:

I design simple and effective social media and Facebook ads strategies helping gifted not for profits and businesses for purpose leverage their social media technology and loyal community to really power their mission, building more donations and creating impact. My work is custom solution aiming at the specific needs of your work.

There are many ways you can reach out to see if I am a good fit for your goals. Check out the Facebook Messanger bubble on the bottom right, contact page on the top and/or a form and a calendar, if this type of communication suits you better.

I look forward to supporting your vision of the future!