Aloha, Flow Riders! It’s Doc Rock here, and today, we’re diving into a topic every content creator should care about—how to create content that stands the test of time. With trends coming and going faster than ever, it’s tempting to hop on the latest bandwagon. But is it worth it? Let’s explore why timeless, evergreen content is your golden ticket to sustainable success.
What is Evergreen Content and Why Does It Matter?
Evergreen content is like a good old classic novel; it never gets outdated and continues to provide value to your audience over time. Unlike trendy content that might give you a temporary spike in views, evergreen content builds a loyal audience that sticks with you. It’s about creating something authentic and valuable that people can return to months or even years later.
Sure, hopping on trends might seem like a quick win. You might get a bump in views or new followers. But as I shared, “You might attract brand-new people because of some trend, but they don’t stick around.” That’s the catch. Trends fade, but timelessness endures.
The Pitfalls of Trendjacking
Trendjacking—leveraging popular topics to gain attention—can be tempting, but it’s a slippery slope. Take diet fads as an example. Remember when everyone was obsessed with a specific health trend, only to learn later that it was unhealthy or unsustainable? Trendjacking might confuse your audience (and even the algorithm), making it harder for your real message to shine.
One viewer, Caroline, described how trends impacted her algorithm: “I found that it confuses the algorithm, and it wasn’t sure what to do with me.” If your content lacks consistency, even the algorithm struggles to understand your niche.
What Makes Content Timeless?
The secret to timeless content boils down to two key ingredients: storytelling and authenticity. Let’s break these down.
1. The Power of Storytelling
Storytelling connects people. It’s that simple. Whether you’re sharing a travel adventure, a crafting tutorial, or a nostalgic moment, your narrative creates an emotional bond with your audience.
For example, I love watching creators who weave their personal stories into their content. “Last time I tried this stitch, my grandma was teaching me by hand,” they might say, sharing a memory that resonates universally. Human emotion doesn’t expire—it’s what keeps people coming back.
2. Authenticity: Be Real, Not Perfect
Authenticity is about being consistent and true to yourself. As Seth Godin puts it, “Authenticity is about knowing exactly what you’re gonna get.” Let your personality and quirks shine through. Forget over-polished content—it’s your realness that your audience craves.
One cautionary tale: A creator whose videos seemed perfect but couldn’t hold a meaningful conversation in real life. That disconnect hurt their credibility. Your audience wants to connect with YOU, not a script. So be consistent and let your genuine self shine.
Why Long-Form Content is Making a Comeback
Here’s some good news: long-form content is back in a BIG way! As I recently discussed with a prominent YouTuber, “Shows that are 30 minutes or longer are seeing spikes in views.” Why? Because people are watching from their TVs, where they crave deeper, more meaningful content.
So, don’t shy away from creating longer episodes or podcasts. They allow you to dive deep into topics and foster authentic connections with your audience. Remember: It’s about quality over quick-hit edits.
AI and Authenticity: A Growing Demand
With the rise of AI-generated content, there’s a growing hunger for authenticity. As one viewer pointed out, “People are looking for creators who look like them, feel like them, and talk like them.” AI might be a helpful tool, but it can’t replace human connection.
Here’s a tip: Use AI tools to brainstorm ideas but let your unique voice shape the content. A great trick is to have AI interview you about your topic to unearth your deepest insights. This ensures your videos reflect your perspective—not generic AI output.
Replace Virality with Value
Let’s settle this once and for all: chasing virality is a losing game. Most of us can’t even recall the most viral video from last year, let alone the year before. Viral fame is fleeting. Instead, focus on creating content with purpose.
“Your only job is to deliver value,” I emphasized. “Make content that hits people right here.” Whether it’s solving a problem, sparking nostalgia, or making someone’s day better—value trumps virality every single time.
Final Thoughts: Build for the Long Run
The key to success in content creation isn’t chasing the next big thing—it’s about crafting something meaningful and enduring. Keep creating, keep learning, and most importantly, stay true to yourself. As I always say, “If your content is serving, you will be fine. If your content is self-serving, you will not.”
So, what type of timeless content are you inspired to create? Share your ideas in the comments below! And don’t forget to subscribe to The Flow for more tips and insights to elevate your content game. Let’s keep growing together!
