Why Certain Trends Don't Hold My Interest: A Perspective from Google's SEO
As a SEO specialist at Google, my role involves understanding the trending topics and content that resonate with a wide audience. However, there are times when certain trends or popular items fail to capture my interest. In this article, I will discuss my personal take on why trends like Game of Thrones, succulents, and smartphones have become less appealing to me over time.
The Decline of Fantasy: Game of Thrones and Harry Potter
Topics like Game of Thrones and Harry Potter used to capture my attention with their intricate plots and rich characters. However, these types of fantasy no longer hold any appeal for me. The constant need for new storylines and the ongoing battles in the fantasy world have lost their charm. It's a common phenomenon where trends or franchises lose their freshness and appeal after sustained popularity. I'm not sure why this happens, but it’s a trend I've personally noticed.
The Evolution of Mobile Technology: Smartphones
Over the years, a significant shift in technology has occurred, particularly with the rise of smartphones. I personally do not own a smartphone and rely on a flip-phone, which serves my needs just fine for making calls. Recalling my past, I remember a time when cell phones did not exist—a period when wealthy individuals or businesses were the only ones who could afford them. Initially, these devices were used for emergencies, and flip-phones were the mainstream phones for everyday use, making calls easy and portable.
The trend of smartphones becoming mainstream in 2006 marked a significant shift. From the initial days when flip-phones were the norm, it’s now rare to see someone without a smartphone. In modern times, cell phones are more than just communication tools; they are mini-computers that can access various forms of social media, including Facebook, Twitter, Snap-chat, YouTube, the internet, email, photos, and video. This accessibility to information and social interaction via mobile devices has profoundly changed our daily lives, but it's also led to a phenomenon where everyone is constantly engaged in their phone.
The Ubiquity of Succulents: A Sign of Memes and Trends
Another trend that has become increasingly prevalent is the widespread use and popularity of succulents. Personally, I find succulents boring and annoying. They can be quite common, especially in retail spaces like Chick-fil-A, where they often sit on tables for decoration. The obsession with succulents is a perfect example of the current trend towards aesthetic minimalism and plant-based decor. However, my personal preference is not aligned with this trend. I see succulents as a clear statement of beauty standards and social trends, rather than a necessity for a well-decorated space.
Often, the ubiquity of these trends can be traced back to social media influence and the spread of memes. Memes play a significant role in popularizing certain items or concepts, making them more accessible and relatable across different communities. This cultural exchange through social media can create a rapid adoption of trends, but it can also lead to a superficial appreciation of these items, lacking any genuine emotional connection.
The Obsession with Ultra Wealthy Lifestyles and Habits
Another popular trend I've observed is the fascination with the habits, lifestyles, and thought processes of ultra-wealthy individuals. This fascination often stems from a desire to align one's life with perceived success. However, I personally find this trend less interesting, as the definition of wealth and success varies greatly from person to person. The statement “best is subjective” highlights that what is best for one person may be completely useless for another. Therefore, the content surrounding this trend can often be subjective and relatable only to a specific audience.
One example of this trend is the discussion around the best commercial aircraft. While a Gulfstream VI is an excellent choice for a business transporting high-end goods, a cargo plane would be more appropriate for transporting goats. This variation in what is deemed best based on the context underscores the subjectivity of preferences and the importance of tailoring advice to individual needs.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In conclusion, certain trends become less appealing over time for various reasons. My interest in fantasy narratives like Game of Thrones and Harry Potter has waned as the world adapted to the rapid changes in technology, particularly the rise of smartphones and the prevalence of succulents. These trends, while popular, may not hold the same level of interest or appeal for everyone, and it's important to recognize that personal preferences play a significant role in what captures our attention.