The “2016 vs 2026” trend is taking over social media right now.
Creators film a split-screen video in which they play two versions of themselves: their 2016 self on one side and their 2026 self on the other, acting out a conversation between the two.
The 2016 version reacts with shock, confusion, or disbelief as the 2026 version reveals what life looks like a decade later.
It works because the format feels like a personal story rather than a sales pitch, which keeps viewers watching until the end.
Creators in the coaching and course space have been quick to adopt the format to showcase their own growth journeys.
For anyone selling info products, coaching programs, or digital courses, this trend turns a decade of personal transformation into a 30-second hook that builds trust and curiosity.
Here is what the trend looks like and how to use it. 👇
Why The ‘2016 vs 2026’ Trend Matters
Nostalgia grabs attention on social media. When someone sees a reference to 2016, their brain immediately pulls up their own memories from that year.
That emotional reaction stops the scroll.
What makes the split-screen dialogue version so powerful for coaches and course creators is the built-in story arc.
The 2016 self represents the “before,” the person struggling, confused, or just getting started. The 2026 self represents the result.
Viewers don’t feel like they’re watching an ad. They feel like they’re watching someone’s real life unfold in fast forward, and they start imagining their own version of that transformation.
This trend delivers transparency by default. There’s no pitch deck, no testimonial reel. Just a creator being honest about where they started and where they ended up.
How To Do The ‘2016 vs 2026’ Trend
Follow these five steps to create your own version of the trend and connect with your audience through personal storytelling:
Step 1: Pick Your Transformation Angle
Choose one specific change between your 2016 self and your 2026 self. Maybe you went from a 9-to-5 job to running a successful coaching business.
Maybe you went from knowing nothing about marketing to teaching it full-time. The more specific the contrast, the better the video performs.
Step 2: Write a Short Dialogue Script
Keep the script under 30 seconds when read aloud. Your 2016 self should ask a question or make a statement that sets up the reveal.
Your 2026 self delivers the punchline or the surprising truth. Think of it like a mini comedy sketch with a real message baked in.
Step 3: Film Both Sides Separately
Record yourself playing the 2016 version first. Use styling cues from the era if you can, like an old hairstyle, different glasses, or even a Snapchat dog filter reference.
Then record the 2026 version looking like your current self. TikTok’s built-in split-screen and green screen tools make this easy to stitch together.
Step 4: Add A Trending Sound
Label each side of the screen with “2016 me” and “2026 me” so viewers instantly understand the format. Browse TikTok’s trending sounds tab for audio that fits the nostalgic or humorous tone.
Popular creators doing this trend often use lo-fi remixes or throwback songs from 2016 to reinforce the vibe.
Step 5: End With A CTA
Let the transformation speak for itself first. After the video ends, use a pinned comment or caption to mention your course, coaching program, or free resource.
Something like “If you want the full story of how I got here, link in bio” works without breaking the video’s personal tone.
Our Key Takeaways
The “2016 vs 2026” trend gives product info sellers and coaches a natural way to showcase their journey without traditional marketing tactics. Here are the main points to remember.
- The split-screen dialogue format turns your personal growth story into a scroll-stopping hook that builds trust with cold audiences.
- Nostalgia content drives higher engagement because it triggers an emotional response before the viewer even processes the message.
- You do not need professional editing skills to pull this off. TikTok’s native tools handle the split-screen and effects.
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