Myth: You need different prompts for every platform

Imagine sitting down to create content for your social media channels. You’ve got the ideas flowing, but then the pressure hits. You start feeling overwhelmed by the thought that every platform requires a unique approach. Instagram needs catchy one-liners, Facebook calls for longer posts, and TikTok? Well, that’s a whole different beast. You’re left wondering if you should be crafting dozens of different prompts for each platform. Sound familiar? I’ve been there, and I know how frustrating it can feel.

The truth is, many of us fall into this trap of believing that we need a unique prompt for every platform we’re on. It’s like trying to juggle flaming torches while riding a unicycle. Sure, it might look impressive if you pull it off, but the risk of dropping something is high, and you’re bound to exhaust yourself in the process. What if I told you that this myth is holding you back from creating consistent, engaging content across the board?

When we’re caught up in the idea that each platform needs its own set of prompts, we end up complicating our content creation process unnecessarily. Instead of channeling our energy into crafting quality content, we’re busy stressing over how to modify messages for different audiences. This creates a cycle of confusion and burnout. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve sat there, staring at a blank screen, only to give up because I felt paralyzed by the pressure to be perfect everywhere.

This myth not only makes content creation feel overwhelming, but it also leads to inconsistencies across your platforms. If you’re constantly changing your messaging, how can your audience get a clear picture of who you are or what you stand for? They may see a different side of you on each platform, which can dilute your brand and leave your followers scratching their heads. It’s frustrating, I know.

Now, let’s talk about the insight that changed everything for me. One day, I had an “aha moment” that shifted my entire approach to content creation. Instead of viewing prompts as one-off requests for each platform, I started seeing them as building blocks for a cohesive narrative. I realized that I could craft a core message that resonated across different platforms, tweaking it slightly to match the tone and style of each. It was a game-changer.

What I discovered was the power of designing prompts rather than just prompting. When you take a systematic approach, you create a structure that allows for reusability. For example, I’d craft a solid base post that outlines my key message, then adapt it for each platform. A longer Facebook post could become a snappy Instagram caption with minimal adjustments. Suddenly, I wasn’t just generating content; I was creating a consistent brand narrative.

Let’s dive into some real examples. Before I adopted this mindset, I was spending hours creating separate posts for Instagram and Facebook. I’d write something for Facebook, then feel the need to completely overhaul it for Instagram because I thought it needed to be different. But then I started using a system. I took a Facebook post that performed well, distilled its essence, and created an Instagram story that highlighted the same core idea. The engagement across both platforms improved, and I saved a ton of time.

Another example is when I worked on promoting a workshop. I had a comprehensive post on Facebook detailing everything, but instead of rewriting the entire thing for Instagram, I extracted key quotes and made them visual. This way, I stayed true to the original message while adapting it for the visual nature of Instagram. I was no longer just winging it; I had a structured approach that made sense.

When you start viewing your content creation as a system rather than isolated tasks, it becomes less daunting. The structure allows you to focus on what really matters—delivering value to your audience. You’ll find that when you establish a clear system, you can create content on the fly without losing your essence or voice. It’s about consistency, not just across platforms, but in how you approach your content.

Having this kind of system means you’re not just throwing spaghetti at the wall to see what sticks. You’re designing your content with intention. This allows you to maintain a strong identity, regardless of where your audience engages with you. It’s like building a house; you wouldn’t just throw together random materials and hope for the best. You’d want a solid framework that supports everything you’re trying to achieve.

As you reflect on your own content creation process, consider how you might apply a similar system. Are you still caught up in the myth that every platform requires a different approach? It’s time to shift your mindset. By designing your content with a cohesive strategy in mind, you’ll not only save time but also create a more engaging experience for your audience.

In closing, I encourage you to embrace the idea that you don’t need different prompts for every platform. It’s about understanding your core message, creating a framework that allows for adaptation, and focusing on delivering consistent value. Remember, it’s okay to experiment and tweak as needed, but don’t let the myth of platform-specific prompts hinder your creativity.

We dismantle these myths in the course, and I’m excited for you to discover how a solid system can transform your content creation journey. You’ve got this!

- Jeff