| If there's one thing we can all relate to as content creators, it's mistakes. And there are a lot you can make in this industry, especially when you've been doing it for as long as I have (18 years..) So I wanted to share some brutal truths I wish I knew from the start: - Taking a break? It's probably going to hurt. Consistency is crucial, especially on fast-paced platforms (like TikTok or IG). So plan your breaks strategically.
- If things aren't working, chances are, it's on you. Harsh, but true. Sometimes the best thing you can do is honestly assess your own efforts and content.
- All platforms tends to favor bigger channels. While they say they value all creators, larger channels often receive more visibility and support, and algorithms just work better for them.
- Looks matter, let's be honest. It's a visual world. While quality content is key, presentation and visual appeal do play a role, especially on platforms like YouTube and Instagram.
- Someone will always grow faster than you. Don't compare. There will always be new channels that skyrocket seemingly overnight. Ignore them, and focus on your own journey and progress. (most tend to fade off just as quickly)
- You gotta actually want it. If your heart's not in it, it shows. Passion is a huge driver in content creation. If you're not enjoying it, good luck trying to stay consistent.
- No one cares how long you spent on a video, just if it's good. Viewers primarily care about the quality and value of the content itself.
- What worked yesterday might not work tomorrow. You always need to evolve. Don't get stuck in your ways. Continuously learn and adapt your content strategy.
- Change is constant. Get used to it. The platforms will evolve, trends will shift, and what works today might be obsolete tomorrow. Staying adaptable is key to longevity.
- Most online friendships are just for show. The creator world can be great for connections, but sometimes, motivations aren't always genuine. Time will tell who your true allies are.
- You can't please everyone. Focus on what makes you happy with your content. Trying to cater to every single person will likely dilute your content and leave you feeling overwhelmed.
- Your initial fans might not stick around forever. It's just how it goes. People's interests change; they might move on to different types of content, and that's perfectly normal. Don't take it personally.
- Still getting asked what you actually do? Join the club. Even after years, explaining your niche and your content can sometimes feel like an ongoing task. Be prepared for it.
- Chasing trends might feel important, but focus on your thing. While staying aware of trends is good, don't lose sight of your core audience and what makes your content unique.
- Don't beat yourself up if you pivot or stop something that isn't working. Celebrate what you did. Not every project will be a success. Learn from it and move on.
- There will be good times and bad times. It's all part of the process. You'll experience highs and lows in views, engagement, and motivation. It's a rollercoaster.
- This too shall pass. Everything on the internet is a phase. Trends, popular content formats, even platforms themselves can change over time.
- It's never too late for something to take off. Keep creating. You never know when a video might go viral or when you might connect with a new audience.
- Every channel's money situation is different. Don't compare payouts. Factors such as niche, audience demographics, and monetization strategies vary significantly.
- If YouTube does well, you do well. It's a partnership. Ultimately, the success of the platform and its creators are intertwined. Same with all other platforms.
- Being a content creator is an actual job. Embrace it. It requires time, effort, and dedication. Treat it as the work that it is.
- Expect some bumps in the road and changes that might not always feel fair. Algorithms can be unpredictable, and platform policies can shift.
- Give YouTube(or Instagram) a break sometimes. They're figuring things out too. They're massive platforms with a lot of moving parts. Not every change will be perfect.
- You don't need a massive following to make a living. There are many ways to earn. Explore sponsorships, merch, products, and other avenues beyond just ad revenue.
- Staying relatively clean content-wise can open up more opportunities. Many advertisers prefer working with channels that maintain a certain level of brand safety.
- Audiences forgive, and they also forget. Don't dwell on mistakes. Learn from them and keep moving forward.
- Say yes to opportunities that come your way – you never know. You might be surprised by where different collaborations and offers can lead you.
- Your audience won't stick around forever. It's part of the journey. Enjoy the time you have with your current audience, but understand that change is inevitable.
- A lot of creators are struggling mentally behind the scenes. It's a tough gig. The pressure of constantly creating and performing can take a toll. Be mindful of your well-being.
- Analytics can be a rabbit hole. Use them wisely, but don't get obsessed. Data can be helpful, but don't let it consume you or dictate every creative decision.
- You can optimize for clicks or for long-term growth. Ideally, do both. Think about both immediate viewer appeal and building a sustainable audience.
- Nobody stays on top forever. Enjoy the ride. Popularity can be fleeting. Appreciate your successes while they last and be prepared for shifts.
Hope you enjoyed these insights, I'll probably expand on them a bit more as there is soooooo much more, but that's enough for today. Happy weekend! -Nadine | |
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