Why I Uploaded 400 Videos... and What It Taught Me
Ladies and gentlemen, gather round! 🎤 Today, we're diving into a journey of blood, sweat, and thumbnails 🖼️. After 400 YouTube videos in 5 years (or was it five?), I’ve learned a lot about what it takes to thrive—or merely survive—on YouTube. So, if you're here wondering, “Should I start a YouTube channel?” or dreaming of quitting your job to live the carefree life of a millionaire YouTuber 🤑, this is for you. Spoiler alert: it's not what you think.
Is Starting a YouTube Channel in 2024 Worth It?
Let’s rip off the Band-Aid: No. It’s not. 🚫
But hold on, don’t storm off to TikTok just yet! Hear me out. Most people jump into YouTube with the wrong idea. They’re chasing the mythical subscriber count, thinking it’s the Holy Grail of success 🏆.
I get it—1,000 subscribers sounds like a walk in the park, right? You post some videos, hit upload, and BAM 💥... fame. Oh, how naïve I was too. Reality hit me harder than a clickbait thumbnail.
The Subscriber Myth
Here’s the thing: subscribers don’t equal success. But why do we chase them? Because it feels validating. Every time that number ticks up, we feel accomplished 🎉. But this mindset is a trap—a soul-sucking, algorithm-driven hamster wheel.
YouTube doesn’t just want you to upload; it wants you to:
- Follow trends like a TikTok dance challenge.
- Create eye-popping thumbnails 🖼️.
- Spark curiosity (aka clickbait 🤡).
- Engage a community that sometimes roasts you harder than Gordon Ramsay. 🔥
And the kicker? The algorithm is as predictable as my cat at 3 a.m. One moment it blesses you with views; the next, you're screaming, "WHAT DO YOU WANT FROM ME?!"
What Success on YouTube Actually Looks Like
Contrary to popular belief, the most successful YouTubers aren’t the ones flexing their silver play buttons 🥈. They’re the ones using YouTube as a tool—a stepping stone to bigger things.
For instance, consider two hypothetical channels:
- Channel A: 8,000 subscribers, rakes in $120,000 annually through a business built around YouTube.
- Channel B: 16,000 subscribers, earns $1,200 annually relying solely on ad revenue.
Which one would you choose? 🧐 Exactly.
The point is: success isn’t about numbers; it’s about purpose. If your channel helps you grow a business, build a brand, or generate meaningful income, then congrats—you’re winning the YouTube game 🏅.
Why YouTube Isn’t for Everyone
- Time-Consuming Monster: Editing, scripting, and uploading videos takes a Herculean effort. You’ll probably lose sleep, miss brunch dates, and develop an unhealthy relationship with Adobe Premiere.
- Random Algorithm Gods: One push from the algorithm can skyrocket your channel 🎢, but waiting for that is like hoping your crush texts back.
Why You Should Treat YouTube Like a Business
If you’re still tempted to start a channel, do it for the right reasons. Treat YouTube as a business, not a playground for validation. Here’s why:
- Tax Perks Are Real 💸: Your mic, camera, and even travel expenses could be tax-deductible (consult a tax expert, though—don’t come after me, IRS 👀).
- Diversified Revenue Streams: Don’t just rely on ad revenue. Think merch, services, courses, or sponsorships.
Tips for New Creators
- Forget Fame: You’re not Beyoncé. Start with a purpose, not a popularity contest.
- Plan Like a Pro: Define goals. Are you building a brand, selling a service, or just flexing?
- Brace for Noise: As your channel grows, so do unsolicited comments. Don’t let trolls steer your ship 🚢.
Final Recap
So, should you start a YouTube channel in 2024? If you’re here for the fame, don’t bother. But if you’ve got a business mindset, a strong goal, and a thick skin, go for it! 💪
YouTube is a powerful platform, but only if you use it wisely. And for goodness’ sake, don’t chase subscribers. Build something that matters—to you and your audience.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got comment sections to dodge and 401th videos to upload. Peace out! ✌️
P.S. If you’re still unsure, feel free to hit me up on social media. Let’s figure this out together!