The Power of Action in Content Creation:

I’d been asked to address a guest house forum on tackling social media. Given the broad nature of this topic, I chose to focus on the power shift from business to consumer due to the new ways we communicate since the advent of the Internet.

The short talk was well received; I saw many people jotting down points I made. However, at the end of my talk, one delegate initiated a new discussion. She expressed frustration with the local authorities’ lack of commitment to basic services in the city, impacting tourism. She cited issues like street cleanliness, pothole repairs, and the lack of promotion for her area.

This made me think.

In life and business, including content creation, to tackle a problem, one needs to take action. I always break down projects into actionable steps. Inspired action is crucial to moving forward.

Our delegate identified the problem but was at a loss on what to do next. She spent considerable time introducing negative energy by deflecting the problem onto someone else, hoping the forum would take up her cause—a classic case of passing the monkey.

Some things are out of our control. Wasting time trying to control the uncontrollable is counterproductive. Instead, we should analyze what we can do. The question to ask is, “What is the next step or action I can take?” Knowing this is key to moving forward. Big, audacious goals are essential for focus, but without breaking them into next actions, we won’t achieve the desired outcomes.

For instance, possible actions in her case could be:

• Make an appointment with the ward councillor to express her views.
• Identify the steps needed to remedy the situation.
• Engage with the right people.
• Call for a meeting with affected stakeholders.
• Plan her vote in the next election to reflect her discontent.

Assuming someone else will take action on your behalf is impractical. The lady hoped the forum would champion her cause. As a founding member of that forum, I believe we need to clearly define our roles.

In content creation, this principle applies too. Break down your projects and tasks into next actions and see the benefits. Inspired action propels progress.

Dave Allen’s excellent book, “Getting Things Done,” encapsulates this philosophy. It’s well worth a read for anyone looking to boost productivity.

For more insights on revolutionising the content creation process, visit Revolutionising the Content Creation Process.

Enjoy breaking your projects into actionable steps and watch your progress unfold.