Reflecting on YouTube Channel Performance and the Pursuit of Meaningful Content
This morning, I'm heading to work for overtime and thinking about my YouTube channel. I've noticed some changes in my channel's performance lately, and it's led me to reflect on the kind of content I want to create. It's a journey of figuring out what resonates with my audience and what aligns with my personal values.
Analyzing Recent Video Trends
My YouTube Studio data reveals a curious pattern. While the number of views and clicks has been decreasing compared to previous videos, the average viewing time has significantly increased. In the past, viewers would watch for around 4-5 minutes before clicking away. Now, they're staying engaged for over 10 minutes on average.
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Decreased views/clicks: Fewer people initially clicking on the videos.
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Increased viewing time: Those who do click, watch for longer.
This suggests that while I might be reaching a smaller audience, that audience is more deeply engaged with the content. This is a positive trend that may be the direction I want to go.
Embracing a Shift in Content Strategy
To be honest, I've felt my channel has become somewhat monotonous, mainly consisting of casual walks with a talking camera. There are a lot of other channels doing more exciting and attractive things. However, I believe there is an audience that resonates with my style. I believe there is a group of friends who will stay and watch my videos.
This shift in viewership has made me think about focusing on deeper, more substantial topics. Perhaps these are subjects I previously avoided due to concerns about appealing to a broader audience. The decreasing views may be a blessing in disguise, pushing me towards more meaningful content.
A Personal Perspective on Taiwanese Luxury and Quality of Life
The topic I'm discussing today is whether Taiwan truly offers high-end housing and a luxurious lifestyle. Based on my experiences working in international companies, I have some observations to share.
Comparing Taiwan to International Standards
Having worked for Swiss and German companies, and now a global company with American and European brands, I've gained a unique perspective. While I might be critical, I feel that Taiwan is a low-income society. It is hard to find high-end quality of life. This is what I have been feeling for the past few decades in Taiwan.
Taiwan faces a pervasive "suffering gene" - a relentless drive to work hard. Even with a rising GDP, the lifestyle hasn't matched the increase. People are forced to live with the lowest cost.
For example, the pursuit of wealth sometimes manifests in superficial ways, like owning a Ferrari with limited places to truly enjoy it. Similarly, expensive apartments may lack basic amenities like quality windows or elevators. I'm speaking about the so-called suffering gene.
Examining Everyday Examples
This "suffering gene" is even apparent in everyday situations, like the ingredients used in breakfast shops. For example, many breakfast shops sell some hamburgers that do not contain meat.
- Breakfast shops: Often use cheap substitutes like imitation cream, despite breakfast costing a lot now.
Even the taste of breakfast is not good. The fact is that the food sold is not as high as that of the McDonald's breakfast.
The Absence of European Aristocratic Culture
In Europe, a rich person who owns Rolls-Royce will not be considered foolish. In contrast to the "suffering gene" in Taiwan, Europe displays a notable aristocratic culture. It is displayed in the way they talk, and how they value life. This culture values quality, taste, and attention to detail.
The High Cost of Taiwanese Real Estate
Taiwan's real estate prices are incredibly high, exceeding even those in Switzerland. Taipei's housing prices are even three times higher than that of Switzerland.
Given this exorbitant cost, one would expect exceptional properties, but this often isn't the case. As someone familiar with the standards of Mercedes or BMW in Germany, I find that Taiwanese architecture often lacks texture and quality.
Hardware and Building Material Deficiencies
One key difference lies in the hardware used in construction. In Europe, hardware adheres to EN154 standards, which are far more stringent than Taiwan's CNS hardware. Taiwan still lacks international design when it comes to hardware.
Building materials also differ, with European interfaces using superior materials like wood and marble. Windows are another major area where Taiwan lags behind.
The Quality of European Windows
European windows are significantly more expensive. The cost difference between Taiwanese and European windows may be five or six times more. Windows in Germany are a standard that a 100,000 dollar house would have.
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Sound Insulation: European windows have excellent sound insulation.
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Heat Insulation: Great heating insulation system
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Construction: Better structure and is able to do 3.5 meters.
Many local manufacturers chose to ignore it because it is too expensive.
The Taozhuyuan and Zhuo Bai Examples
While rare, there are exceptions in Taiwan, such as Taozhuyuan, which uses German windows. Zhuo Bai is also a good standard. These examples demonstrate that quality is possible, but it's not the norm.
A Story from Taichung
In one memorable case, a businessman in Taichung wanted to upgrade his hardware to German standards. His designer initially agreed but later confessed that the budget was far too low for such an upgrade.
This highlights a broader issue: cost-cutting is prevalent not only among construction companies but also among homeowners.
Hopes for the Future
I am not saying Taiwan's architecture is all bad.
Despite this gap, I remain optimistic. I believe that Taiwan can improve its architectural standards through greater knowledge and a commitment to quality. High-end luxury is a result of comprehensive compromise. The high prices need to make you feel it is worth it.
I hope that through shared knowledge and a desire for improvement, Taiwan can progress and offer a better standard of living. I think that things are still far off. But I believe that we are making progress.
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