7 Viral Emotions Template

A framework for creating viral content by intentionally targeting specific emotional reactions from your audience.

Core Emotional Reactions Template

• LOL - Really funny content
• WTF - Outrageous/unjust situations that make people angry
• AWW - Cute or heartwarming content
• AWE - Amazing or impressive content
• "Finally someone said it" - Expressing commonly felt but unspoken thoughts
• Outrage - Most shareable emotion, converts sad content into viral content
• Recognition - Content that makes people feel personally seen/understood

Key Principles for Viral Content

• Start with the intended emotion

  • Define the emotional reaction before creating content
  • Choose emotions proven to drive more shares
  • Avoid emotions like depression/sadness that don't generate shares

• Content Optimization

  • Can transform sad content into outrage for better performance
  • Small tweaks can significantly change emotional impact
  • Focus on emotions that drive sharing behavior

Content Creation Process

• Write first draft
• Take a break to let it "simmer"
  • Step away and do other activities
  • Let your brain relax and process
  • Return with fresh perspective
• Edit for 20-30 minutes
  • Refine content to better hit intended emotion
  • Make sure emotional impact is clear and strong
  • Remove anything that dilutes the core emotional reaction

Why This Works

• Helps content creators be more intentional
• Leverages proven emotional triggers
• Taps into shared human experiences
• Creates recognition and relatability
• Makes content more shareable by design