It's not that I dislike long-form content

It’s that I need space to process and take action

Hey there!

How is Fall or Spring treating you so far?

This article brings some reflections, but first, a couple of small disclaimers

A) I’m going to use the word “content” as a “collective noun” and an easy way to mention articles, blog posts, essays, newsletters, podcasts, and videos in one word.

I’m aware that many people don’t resonate with the term, and I can agree that the way it has been used in the past few years stripped the actual content behind it —stories, art, reflections, data, creations, etc—of its deeper meaning. If you’re one of those people, I invite you to substitute it with whatever works best for you!

B) I will share some insights on my content preferences with you, which are all about my personal current experience and don’t mean to invalidate the kind of content you create or like.


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A few weeks ago, I dropped on Amelia Hruby‘s post “September Biz Forecast” the following comment:

I can do just as much long-form content. I really struggle with having a bunch of long essays in my inbox or Substack app on a weekly basis. My own newsletter feels too long to me. 😅

Since then, I kept thinking about it and asking myself why.

Is it because I don’t like long-form content?

Is it because there’s too much content in my inbox?

Does it depend on the author’s writing style?

Or is it maybe the wall of text that discourages me?

Is it because of the topic?

Is it me? (Why not throw some guilt in there while I was at it?! 😅)

Well, while many of them could be valid reasons, a few days later, I figured out the actual deeper why.

I love content that helps me reflect, notice, uncover, become aware, and maybe initiate some kind of transformation, too. A kind of content that is thought-provoking, open-ended, inquiring, spacious, and space-holding and that somehow invites me to take aligned action. (Well, that fits the line of work I chose!)

Also, my mind is currently overloaded with information, so content that brings a lot of new information doesn’t help me process it, dive deep into my thoughts, or tap into my inner resources.

So, for me, right now, the issue is not the format, the topic, the style, or the length. It’s that I crave space, time, quiet, and the chance to have a conversation with myself sparked by that content.

Now that I’ve realized it, I’ve decided that, for a while, I’ll keep reading, listening, or watching just what welcomes me into that conversation and holds space for me.

Also, speaking with some clients, colleagues, and newsletter subscribers, I realized that the need for spaciousness and room for inner connection and dialogue is shared. So, I decided to change things in my newsletter (formerly Substack publication) to acknowledge and honor this common need.

I’ll tell you more about the changes in the next weeks. I can’t wait to share my project with you, but I’m not ready yet, so you’ll have to bear with me for a few more days!

Have you been questioning your relationship with content lately?

Why don’t you reflect on what made you question it, what you like or dislike about the content you engage with, what content gives you what you need, and what you can peacefully let go of?

With care,
Giada

I’m eager to support you!

Hey there! I’m Giada (Jah-da, more or less), an Impact Coach dedicated to empowering values-driven, socially conscious solopreneurs, entrepreneurs, and leaders. My coaching services are tailored to help them spark, nurture, and root their impact and joy. If this speaks to you, let’s have a chat!



Comments

6 responses to “It's not that I dislike long-form content”

  1. Stephanie Graham (she/her) 🪩 Avatar
    Stephanie Graham (she/her) 🪩

    I’m curious what other words people are using. I never thought of myself as a content creator, and I’m not sure I want to, but because of my podcast, that’s the title.

    I think having another word would be nice. When I think of the word content, I think of someone dancing on TikTok while wearing lipstick that I will now want for myself

    1. Giada Centofanti Avatar
      Giada Centofanti

      That’s a good question! I think that “content” is hard to replace with a one-word term that conveys the same meaning. However, to replace the term “content creator”, I guess we could use creator, podcaster, youtuber, writer, etc. or influencer to identify the type of creator you are referring to. What do you think?

  2. Santina Kerslake Avatar
    Santina Kerslake

    I enjoy content that is meaningful and helps me ask more questions to ponder. Yes if it creates spaciousness it is a big bonus.

    1. Giada Centofanti Avatar
      Giada Centofanti

      Thanks for sharing, Santina! Yes, content that evokes questions is great!

  3. Ryn Kingsley Avatar
    Ryn Kingsley

    I find that long form content that’s heavy on education or information is only useful if I’m trying to learn how to do a specific thing. Also when content is written to help me reflect, notice, or transform my thinking the length doesn’t matter. I’m excited to see your changes!

    1. Giada Centofanti Avatar
      Giada Centofanti

      Same! Thanks for sharing and for the encouragement. 😊

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