How To Make Work Fun!

The allure of a YouTube career is undeniable. The promise of creating content, connecting with audiences, and achieving recognition can be incredibly motivating. However, the road to YouTube success is not always a joyride. It's riddled with challenges, obstacles, and moments that can be far from fun. Yet, with the right mindset and strategies, you can transform these hardships into opportunities for growth, creativity, and enjoyment.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the world of YouTube careers, exploring how to infuse fun into the challenging aspects, set proper goals, stay motivated, and build a support network of like-minded friends. By the end, you'll be equipped to navigate the rollercoaster ride of a YouTube journey with enthusiasm and resilience.

Chapter 1: Embrace the Challenges

Let's start by acknowledging the elephant in the room: YouTube is not all fun and games. It's a demanding endeavor that comes with its share of difficulties. Recognizing and embracing these challenges is the first step toward making work fun, even when things get tough. We’ll work our way into how to make work enjoyable, but before we get there, I'll need to clarify a few key topics and concepts to ensure you have a complete understanding of the final outcome.

a. Consistency Is Key

One of the hard things about YouTube is maintaining a consistent posting schedule. Whether it's daily uploads or weekly videos, keeping up with a regular release calendar can be daunting. However, consistency is essential for growing your audience and maintaining their interest. To make this task enjoyable, consider the following tips:

• Set Achievable Goals: Rather than burdening yourself with daily uploads right from the start, initiate your YouTube journey with a schedule that aligns with your capabilities. As you gather momentum and consistently meet these milestones, you'll experience growth, and your confidence will soar. This success will motivate you to set new, challenging goals, propelling you even higher in your YouTube career. Achieving these self-imposed targets brings immense fulfillment and serves as a driving force for your continued progress.

• Explore Diverse Themes: To maintain consistency and keep the excitement alive without succumbing to boredom, consider experimenting with various content themes within your niche. This approach injects a fresh and engaging element into your channel, benefitting both you and your viewers. For instance, I identify as a variety gamer, which means I enjoy playing a wide array of games. However, I've learned that this approach may not be sustainable for smaller YouTubers. Consequently, I've chosen a primary game that serves as a magnet to attract potential viewers. Once they arrive, I make a concerted effort to captivate and retain their interest by infusing my unique personality into every facet of my content. It's important to understand that while you're constructing your channel within your niche, you're simultaneously crafting your brand through your distinct persona and your approach to content creation. If you'd like to delve deeper into the concept of niches, I recommend checking out our "How To Start A Gaming Channel" blog post for additional insights, even if you’re not a gaming YouTuber!

• Reward Yourself: Celebrate your consistency milestones. Treat yourself to something you enjoy, whether it's a favorite snack, a short break, or a new piece of equipment. Rewarding yourself after achieving your consistency goals is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it reinforces positive behavior and encourages you to maintain your commitment to consistency. When you recognize and acknowledge your achievements, it provides a sense of accomplishment and motivation to keep going. That's why, if you tune in to my streams, you might catch me indulging in candy or Pringles from time to time. I must admit, occasionally I simply enjoy having some snacks on hand, not as a reward, just for a case of the munchies.

Celebrating milestones can help prevent burnout and maintain your enthusiasm for your YouTube journey. It can be challenging to stay consistent over the long term, and having periodic rewards can make the process more enjoyable. It serves as a reminder that your hard work is paying off and that you are moving in the right direction.

Additionally, incorporating rewards into your consistency plan can create a positive feedback loop. The act of rewarding yourself can become a habit associated with your YouTube efforts. This positive association can make you more inclined to stick to your schedule and achieve even more ambitious goals in the future.

Celebrating consistency milestones is essential because it reinforces your commitment, prevents burnout, maintains enthusiasm, and creates positive associations with your YouTube journey. So, go ahead and treat yourself when you hit those goals – you've earned it!

b. Video Production Challenges

Creating high-quality videos involves various technical aspects like editing, scripting, and mastering software. These tasks may not always be your idea of fun, but they're crucial for producing engaging content. Here's how to make them enjoyable:

• Learn and Grow: Instead of regarding video editing as a mundane task, view it as a chance to acquire new skills and elevate your expertise. Every video you edit brings you one step closer to mastering your craft. It's worth noting that I've faced my share of struggles in this regard (I still struggle highly in this area). I often find myself spending a substantial amount of time on video editing because I set exceptionally high standards. This can sometimes lead to disappointment when I fall short of those goals. That's why it's crucial to emphasize the importance of setting realistic and achievable goals.

• Collaborate with Others: I'm not suggesting collaboration as a way to avoid the work of creating content yourself. However, I am emphasizing that working with others can be an invaluable tool for your growth and sanity in the YouTube realm. It can sometimes feel like no one truly understands the unique challenges of content creation when you talk to those who aren't in the same boat. That's why having friends who share your mindset and experiences is so vital. Collaborating with others can make the entire process much more enjoyable. Personally, I have a circle of friends who join me during streams or even offline, and their presence adds a tremendous amount of fun to everything I do. Knowing that I'm on a growth journey with like-minded creators fills me with joy and serves as a powerful motivation to keep progressing alongside these amazing individuals.

• Create a Comfortable Workspace: Make your video production area inviting and comfortable. Decorate it with elements that inspire and motivate you, whether it's posters of your favorite games or inspirational quotes. I’ve talked about this in “How To Create Content” blog post, but I have a white board that has inspiring quotes, deadlines, a schedule for my day, objectives and tasks, as well as funny drawings. I put it in a place where I would see it every day. That may not work for you, but you can experiment and try things out until you find what motivates you. Of course, this shouldn’t be your main source of inspiration, your main source of inspiration should come from your goals, dreams, and objectives.

Let me emphasize that, especially when you're starting your channel, quality should not be your primary focus. Investing excessive time in perfecting your videos can lead to delays, and sometimes, those videos that should have been posted last week are still sitting in your editing queue. If your editing process is becoming too time-consuming, it's alright to make efficiency-driven cuts. If scriptwriting feels challenging, it's essential to identify the specific difficulties and work on finding solutions. Often, the answer may be right in front of you, but we tend to complicate matters and overlook simple solutions. It's crucial to distinguish between cutting for efficiency and cutting out of sheer difficulty. Keep in mind that tasks you find challenging now won't necessarily become easier by procrastinating. Some challenges require perseverance and dedicated effort. As you continue to learn and refine your skills, if certain tasks remain exceptionally difficult or time-consuming, then you can consider adjustments to streamline your workflow.

Chapter 2: Setting Proper Goals and Outlines

A key aspect of making work enjoyable on YouTube is having a clear sense of direction. Without proper goals and outlines, you might find yourself lost or demotivated. Here's how to set the right goals and outlines for your YouTube career:

a. Define Your Objectives

Start by defining your long-term and short-term objectives. These could include subscriber milestones, revenue targets, or content quality improvements. Having clear goals gives your work purpose and direction.

• SMART Goals: Apply the SMART criteria to your goals—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For example, instead of saying, "I want more subscribers," say, "I aim to reach 10,000 subscribers within one year."

While there's nothing inherently wrong with setting time-bound goals like "I aim to reach 10,000 subscribers in one year," it's essential to consider the limitations of such goals. Often, people tend to overestimate what they can achieve in a single year while underestimating their potential progress over the course of two, three, or even ten years. This perspective highlights the idea that certain accomplishments are subject to factors beyond your control. Take, for instance, the goal of reaching 10,000 subscribers within a year. Unforeseen circumstances or external factors could hinder you from achieving this goal within the predetermined timeframe. This is why it's often more effective to set goals where the outcome is determined by your actions rather than external variables. Let me elaborate on this concept.

If you're planning to start a YouTube channel and set a goal like, "I want to reach 10,000 subscribers by the end of the year," it's indeed an ambitious aspiration. However, the challenge lies in the fact that the outcome largely depends on factors beyond your control, such as audience growth trends and algorithm changes. A more effective approach is to set a goal like, "I will consistently post 1 or 2 videos every week until the end of the year." This goal focuses on something you have direct control over – your actions. By committing to a consistent posting schedule and continuously improving your content, you not only enhance your video creation skills but also cultivate a loyal community that appreciates your work. The beauty of this approach lies in the direct correlation between your efforts and the results you achieve. You reap the benefits of your consistent actions and dedication. 

b. Create Detailed Outlines

Outlining your content is a critical step in the video creation process that can greatly benefit your YouTube channel. Let's delve deeper into each aspect of content outlining and explore why they are essential:

• Research: In-depth research is the foundation of any well-crafted video. It's important to thoroughly understand your chosen topic/niche, and gather relevant information, statistics, and examples. Research helps you build credibility with your audience by providing accurate and valuable insights. By taking the time to explore your subject matter, you can deliver content that is informative, educational, or entertaining. Moreover, your research can uncover unique angles or perspectives that set your video apart from others in your niche.

• Scripting: A detailed script is your roadmap for creating a cohesive and engaging video. It serves as the backbone of your content, guiding you through the entire process. Your script should include key elements such as a captivating introduction that hooks viewers, main points that convey your message effectively, and a compelling conclusion that leaves a lasting impression. Scripting helps you maintain focus, avoid rambling, and ensure that your video flows smoothly. It also allows you to fine-tune your messaging to resonate with your target audience. To clarify, it's not necessary to have a script that you recite word-for-word, but it's advisable to have key topics and notes that serve as your guide during the video creation process. In fact, some of the most humorous and authentic moments in your content can occur when you go off-script and speak spontaneously. However, if you find it more comfortable to have a complete script to ensure you cover all essential points, that's perfectly fine. The goal is to optimize your time and efficiency, allowing you to allocate more time to other critical tasks in your content creation workflow.

• Visuals: Visuals play a pivotal role in captivating and retaining your audience's attention when it comes to your video content. When planning your video's visuals, there are several key aspects to consider, including camera shots, transitions between scenes, and the use of overlays or graphics. However, I understand that beginners might not have access to multiple camera angles, seamless transitions, or all the necessary assets for overlays, as I discussed in my previous blog post. In the early stages of your YouTube journey, prioritizing quantity and consistency is often more crucial than focusing solely on video quality and timeliness. It's important to remember that you are a central element of the visual experience. Your presence is what makes the video come to life. Before delving into advanced visual elements like intricate camera shots and graphics, harness your own on-camera presence to create engaging content. An effective way to hone your skills in this regard is to record a 10-minute video daily, alongside your regular video uploads. These practice sessions are solely for your benefit and won't be posted. After recording, review the footage after 24 hours, identify areas for improvement, and immediately record another 10-minute video. Over time, this practice will boost your confidence in front of the camera and help you develop your unique "on-camera persona."

Incorporating these outlining practices into your video creation process can help you produce content effectively, while also keeping it high-quality, that stands out in the competitive world of YouTube. It ensures that your videos are well-researched, structured, and visually engaging, ultimately enhancing the viewer experience and fostering audience growth.

Chapter 3: Keeping Your Dreams Alive

Every YouTube creator experiences moments in their career when enthusiasm wanes, and challenges appear overwhelming. To be candid, I too have faced such moments while creating videos. There were times when it felt like my content wasn't gaining the traction I hoped for, and the journey seemed daunting. I understand that building a presence on YouTube is a long-term endeavor, but there are moments when it can feel incredibly tough. However, it's during these challenging times that your dreams can serve as a powerful source of motivation, reigniting the joy in your work.

a. Revisit Your Why

Take a moment to reflect on the reasons that initially drove you to embark on your YouTube journey. What were your dreams and aspirations when you started? Reconnecting with your initial motivations can rekindle your passion for content creation. It's essential to recognize that your "Why" should extend beyond personal gratification. It should be something that not only elevates your own life but also uplifts others, ensuring that your journey benefits more than just yourself. Often, when we solely pursue personal gain, we can find ourselves in a deeper, more isolating place. Conversely, when you reach the pinnacle of your success, it can be a lonely experience if your "Why" isn't grounded in a higher purpose.

In my case, I began my YouTube journey with the goal of demonstrating that it's possible to sustain oneself by pursuing one's passions. I aimed to create a stable income to support my family, providing them with the freedom to choose their paths comfortably. Additionally, I aspired to be invited onto talk shows, where I could attribute my achievements to faith in God, sharing the message that divine guidance played a significant role in my journey.

• Vision Boards: Consider creating a vision board with images, quotes, and reminders of your YouTube goals. Place it in your workspace to serve as a daily reminder of your dreams.

b. Celebrate Milestones

Every step forward is an accomplishment worth celebrating. Don't wait until you've achieved your ultimate goals to celebrate; recognize and appreciate the smaller milestones along the way. I’m not saying celebrate every little thing, I’m saying that some taks and objectives deserve to be enjoyed. If you enjoy every little task, you’ll never reach your end goal.

• Personal Rewards: Reward yourself for achievements, whether it's hitting a subscriber milestone, mastering a new video editing technique, or a successful month of posting videos. Use discretion, rewarding yourself for every success isn’t wise, but there is worth is affirming good habits.

Chapter 4: Building a Supportive Network

Navigating the challenges of a YouTube career is more enjoyable when you have a network of friends who share similar mindsets and thought processes. Surrounding yourself with the right people can keep you motivated, inspired, and on track.

a. Connect with Like-Minded Creators

Engage with fellow YouTubers who are on a similar journey. Join online communities, forums, and social media groups dedicated to content creation. These connections can provide valuable insights, collaborations, and moral support.

• Accountability Partners: Consider partnering with an accountability buddy—a fellow creator who shares your goals. You can motivate each other, provide feedback, and celebrate successes together. Healthy competition can serve as an excellent motivator too when both you and your partner are open to it.

b. Foster a Positive Online Community

Encourage positivity and engagement within your own YouTube community, your "Falcon Force." Foster an environment where viewers and fellow creators feel valued, respected, and heard.

Chapter 5: How to Make Work Fun

Now, let's delve deeper into the art of making your work enjoyable on your YouTube journey. While the previous chapters have laid the foundation, this section aims to provide a more comprehensive understanding of this essential concept.

• Find Your "Why": As mentioned earlier, your reasons for starting your YouTube channel are the bedrock of your journey. But it's equally crucial to understand that your "why" should extend beyond personal ambitions. Consider five significant reasons why you want to embark on this YouTube adventure. These should be aspirations larger than yourself, something that can pull you out of the deepest valleys of motivation.

• Constantly Revisit Your Goals: While you work on your channel, it's essential to keep your goals and objectives at the forefront of your mind. Reflect on the passions that fueled your decision to start YouTube. Remember the camaraderie you share with friends who are on this journey with you. These elements act as fuel to keep you moving forward.

• Share Your Dreams: Don't keep your dreams and aspirations a secret. Share them with your friends and fellow creators. When you stumble and feel like giving up, your friends can serve as a support system, reminding you of the dreams you hold dear. It may sound simple, but it's a powerful motivator.

• Embrace the Challenge: Understand that the path won't always be easy, and there will be moments when self-doubt creeps in. Rather than dwelling on potential failures, focus on your goals. If your objectives are significant enough to you, you'll find the strength to persevere, getting out of bed each morning driven by the determination to bring your unique vision to life.

• Shift from Doubt to Confidence: Transition from thinking about potential failure to knowing that you'll succeed. Confidence in your abilities and the significance of your goals can change your outlook entirely. It's not about ignoring challenges but approaching them with a mindset that says, "I will overcome."

A YouTube career is a thrilling adventure, but it comes with its share of challenges. However, by embracing these difficulties, setting clear goals, staying connected to your dreams, and building a supportive network, you can infuse fun into your work and transform obstacles into stepping stones to success. Remember, it's not always about the destination; it's the journey that truly matters. So, take each challenge in stride, and let the joy of creating content guide you along the way.

Thanks for reading! Stay strong and fly on Falcon Force!