Why You Should Start a YouTube Channel, Even If No One Watches
Many aspiring content creators struggle with the initial lack of viewership on YouTube. Despite the hours spent editing, scripting, and filming, videos might only be watched by a small number of people, often family members. This can lead to feelings of wasted time and effort. However, starting a YouTube channel is still a brilliant idea, even if you don't immediately gain a large audience.
David's YouTube Journey
David, a law student in Germany who started his own social media business, understands this struggle firsthand. He previously had a YouTube channel called "Wisdom Nuggets Unlocked," where he posted 15 videos but only gained 42 subscribers. Despite inviting people from his network to be on the show, the content didn't resonate with a large audience. Discouraged by the lack of interest and negative comments, he eventually gave up.
However, this year he found success with short-form content on Instagram and TikTok, growing from zero to over 30,000 followers in a few months. This success motivated him to return to YouTube with a new mindset.
Overcoming Challenges and Shifting Mindset
YouTube can be overwhelming, especially in the beginning. Concerns about judgment from personal contacts and comparisons to high-production-value channels are common. David still receives comments criticizing his content and suggesting he focus on law studies. Despite these challenges, he believes in the value of starting a YouTube channel. He is now focusing on authentic, direct communication, even if it means a less polished video.
Reasons to Start a YouTube Channel
YouTube is for Everyone
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Addressing Excuses: Common excuses like being "too old," "too young," or in a "tiny niche" are often limiting beliefs rooted in fear.
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Overcoming Fear: The fear of judgment and self-doubt can hold people back. But if others can succeed, so can you.
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Inclusivity: YouTube welcomes everyone regardless of age, gender, nationality, or race. It's a platform for learning and sharing your unique perspective.
Make a Difference in Someone's Life
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Impact: Even with a small audience, you have the potential to positively impact lives. Imagine having 100-200 people in a room. That's a significant number of people.
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Motivation and Insight: Encouraging, providing new insights, or motivating just one person makes a difference.
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Positive Reinforcement: Positive comments can outweigh negative ones, reinforcing the value of your content.
It's Never Too Late (or Too Early)
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What If?: Focus on the positive possibilities. What if you help someone? What if you gain traction? What if you monetize?
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Best Time to Start: While the best time to start was earlier, the second best time is today.
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Consistent Effort Pays Off: David's current channel, after four months of consistent posting, has surpassed 15,000 subscribers.
Document Your Life
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Creative Expression: YouTube offers a creative outlet and a way to express yourself.
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Monetization Potential: Staying consistent can lead to monetization, allowing you to earn money while helping people.
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Time Capsule: Your videos become a document of your life. Imagine looking back at your content years from now.
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Personal Growth: As an example, David mentions that creating content in English (his third language), has vastly improved his fluency.
Start your YouTube channel for yourself, for others, and for your future self.