Let's talk about the most underrated secret in content creation: recognition. 

You know that feeling when you see a video and think "That's literally me!" - that's what we're diving into today.

Here's the thing about recognition - it hits different than shock value or humour. 

When people see themselves in your content, they don't just watch. 

They stay, they engage, and most importantly, they share.

The Science Behind It

Ever wonder why you can't help but watch those "relatable moments" videos all the way through? 

Your brain's mirror neurons fire up when you see someone experiencing something you've been through. 

It's like your brain is saying "Yep, been there, done that."

But here's where it gets interesting. 

When viewers recognise themselves in your content, their brains release dopamine. 

That's the same feel-good chemical that makes scrolling through TikTok so addictive.

The Failure Formula

Want to know one of the most powerful ways to use recognition? 

Show someone failing at a simple task. 

Not once, but three times in quick succession. 

Sounds basic, but here's why it works:

Everyone's failed at something simple. Everyone. 

That universal experience creates an instant connection.

Plus, when you show the struggle before the success, you're telling their story.

Beyond The Obvious

But recognition isn't just about showing everyday fails. 

You also want to pay attention to those micro-moments that everyone experiences but rarely talks about. 

The way you check your phone right after putting it down. 

The awkward dance of trying to find the end of the tape roll. 

The internal panic when someone says "happy birthday" and you reply "you too."

These tiny, relatable moments? They're gold for engagement.

Making It Work

Here's how to nail recognition in your content:

1) Start with something specific. 

The more specific the situation, the more powerful the recognition. 

Don't just show someone being tired - show them pouring orange juice into their cereal because they haven't had their coffee yet.

2) Keep it authentic. 

Over-exaggerating kills relatability. 

Real reactions, real expressions, real emotions - that's what connects.

3) Add a twist. 

Once you've got their recognition, surprise them. 

Show them they're not alone in that weird thing they thought only they did.

The Share Factor

Here's the best part about recognition-based content: people share it. 

Not because it's funny (though it can be), but because sharing it says "See? I'm not the only one!"

It's like giving your audience a mirror and a megaphone at the same time.

The Numbers Don't Lie

Videos using strong recognition elements see longer view times, higher engagement rates, and more importantly - more shares. 

Because recognition creates trust. 

When people feel seen, they stick around.

Ready to try it? 

Here's your challenge:

• Create a piece of content focusing on a super specific, relatable moment. 

• Something so precise that it makes people say "Wait, how did they know?"

Now, before you go off to create your next viral hit, can I ask you for a favour? It'll take you 20 seconds, tops.

Think of that mate of yours. You know the one - always posting, grinding hard, but maybe not seeing the results they deserve.

Send them this link: Viral Academy Newsletter

Tell them, "You need to get on this. You're getting a mini-masterclass in content creation - in your pocket (all for free)"

Why am I asking this?

Simple. If you're finding these newsletters valuable (and I hope you are), why not do something nice for a friend? Help them level up their content game, absolutely free.

I want to help as many people as possible with these newsletters so I’ll keep making them for you and I would really appreciate it if you shared with even just one friend.

Until next time, 

Jeremy

P.S. 8.4 million views. 535K likes. 12 seconds of footage.

Btw, thank you for all the feedback so far. We’ve collected a ton of responses these past few months and each one helps me make this newsletter better and better for you. 

Don't forget to use the tips from my past 25 newsletters to keep improving. (Missed an issue? Catch up here).

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