What causes burnout and how to avoid it?

I’ve noticed lately that a lot of KZbinrs are quitting KZbin after seemingly getting to the point they’ve always dreamed of-being a successful content creator.
The main reason seems to be that what started off as a passion of theirs, ended up turning into a stressful job which took out the enjoyment they used to get from creating content.
In this video I discuss what we as creators who are just starting out in the world of content creation can do succeed as KZbinrs, while not losing the passion and enjoyment we get from it.
I hope you find this video valuable and entertaining, and I’d love to hear your thoughts about it in the comments.
Tom Scott’s video: • After ten years, it's ...
Jordy from cinecom.net’s video: • the end
Mark Manson’s podcast with Matt from Yes Theory: • How to Give Up Everyth...
Peter McKinnon’s video: • How Photography Can Ge...
00:00-1:41 Why are they actually quitting?
1:42-1:53 The big question.
2:10-4:08 My personal experience.
4:09-6:04 Matt from Yes Theory’s experience.
6:05-6:50 Mark Manson’s solution.
6:51-8:06 Peter McKinnon’s solution.

[@aliabdaal]

Great video

[@notbengordon]

OH. MY. GOD. I’ve leaned so much from you, it’s crazy for me to see you comment on my video! It means so much coming from you, thank you!

[@reviewmylifenyc]

Aliabdaal commented on your video! Yeah this is the video that will blow your channel, congratulations

[@DanielBro42]

Damn

[@MartinTabanag]

The best solution i did is built a business. So i can just create youtube contents with full creativity. Not chasing views, sponsorships whatsoever. But just for the love of it

[@travisminneapolis]

Do you own a carwash or laundromat? What do you mean by business? KZbin channels can be 7 figures per month business, and are indeed businesses.

[@OmegaVideoGameGod]

Exactly, everybody has to ask themselves what they really want and how they can get there.

[@TheReelNerdyReview]

I’ve been on KZbin for 4 years this year and my goal is to reach the partner program.

[@Nohb-Dy]

Indeed...

[@AConnect06]

I'm not rich, im not an expert, spent a fortune buying gear until i get guilty, but from day one i've never tried to moneitize any of my channels NEVER

[@_moes_garage_]

I 1000% agree with the whole, "don't rely on it as your main source of income" that really does kill creativity and leads to burnout

[@TheNinjaFam]

I really appreciate this video. I think you have a great chance to be a successful creator. KZbin has transformed our lives. We have over 30 million subs and 15 billion views between our 6 channels. , It’s also been the hardest endeavor of our lives. Recruiting and managing employees is my least favorite part. My goal is to remove distractions so I can focus on creating. If I can’t then I’ll quit.

[@notbengordon]

Wow! Thank you so much, and thank you for taking the time to leave a comment!

[@karlbodmer4368]

Don't forget that being a KZbinr is very similar to running your own business. You should upload things people want to see, just like businessman should offer product/service that people need. The most difficult part is starting and growing of course, but consistency and hard work (with a little bit of Famester of course to help) will always pay off at the end. Good luck to everyone, we will all succeed one day!!

[@notbengordon]

True! And good luck to you as well!

[@thefinals5694]

I just saw this very same comment almost word for word on the last video I watched..the name also looks like a bot kinda 😅 it's good advice in all seriousness tho. Also, that doesn't negate that this is a really good video, one fishy comment may not be indicative of bot activity, who knows

[@tejitopia]

This is exactly what I needed. I had recently been going all in on trying to build my KZbin channel and hadn’t worked a normal job in years with the hopes that my content/art/whatever was going to become a full time gig. But when KZbin or any other creative outlet becomes something you need to profit from it can have a huge impact on the creativity and enjoyment from that thing. I strongly believe in the law of detachment and the fact that you can have anything you want in life as long as you don’t need it.

[@notbengordon]

Thank you for sharing your experience!

[@vincecarlton6842]

Wow I agree with this philosophy. I share the same View

[@brew_baller]

This is a great example of what happens when you have to compromise your creative freedom for success. Art is subjective. Money isn’t everything. Just do what you love

[@thebonostudio]

Love this!! After college I dove right into content creation and it made me loose my love for travel photography bc I not longer was present in the places and would stress out about making sure I capture all the brand content perfectly, now I’m a remote designer and do my photography and art on the side and I can be way more creative and breathe and be authentic in my expression. People bash 9-5 but hustling for the next client all the time and being financially stressed is like a wet rag on the flame of creativity. Don’t force your creativity to support you in totality. It’s your inner child and needs the freedom of play

[@PlayingWithPowerMTG]

As a channel with 90K subs and it being my full time job, I can relate to why creators are leaving the platform. It takes what you love and turns it into a job. The one thing I think people lose when making this their full time job is losing a key audience member. When you create as a job, your audience is your fans, vendors, sponsors, and partners. When you create as a hobby, your audience is your fans and *yourself*. Great vid. Keep it up!

[@notbengordon]

I love that insight, it’s very true. And thank you so much for sharing!

[@ralphwarom2514]

My passion is making money. I like business stuff. But maybe they just needed to stop going all out all the time. And just be OK with taking like a one month break from time to time.

[@kevinsjournal]

I'm a smaller finance channel and that's been the struggle as well, trying to find a balance between what will likely get more views and what we genuinely want to make videos talking about.

[@tjal92]

Dude you are talented and a good storyteller. This was enjoyable to watch. And I was surprised when I realised it didnt have highly optimised retention editing.

[@notbengordon]

Thank you! This is a great compliment, since I’ve been trying lately to focus more on good storytelling to make a video entertaining, rather than a lot of annoying jump cuts etc.

[@middleagedmindandmuscle2267]

This was a fantastic video, and very true. My other channel I built up to 26k subs in 2 years, but somehow things changed to really appeal to the people tuning in and subscribing and it turned into something different than what I started it for, and I lost all enjoyment and fulfillment from it. I'm making sure to stay true to myself with my new channel.

[@IntentionalFootball]

Very natural/authentic script style. Love it. Tired of all the stimulation overload and money-grabbing content. Great things take time. The long-road must always be remembered when considering these short-term desires.

[@OGtalks]

Been doing KZbin full time for a year . I can’t wait to go back to work and make KZbin secondary again . I have no drive at all being a full time creator . It actually killed my passion for it .

[@DarneIITV]

Damn That's sad to hear

[@OGtalks]

@@DarneIITVit is but there’s no money in it either .. it’s a lot of work for very little reward . Think of it this way ; for every 10 successful KZbinrs , there are 1000’s of KZbinrs that are struggling .

[@AnthonyHadleyJr]

I wondered how many other people had been noticing this pattern. Glad to see this video is doing so well, congrats!

[@skate702]

Great video! I heared of many of those youtubers quitting and you did an excellent job summarizing the situation. I did KZbin full time for 6 years and I can also confirm many of the points raised in these videos. Eventually in 2020, I decided against the creator career and I don't regret it at all. Great script, keep up such amazing work!

[@classicaltrombone]

First of all, good luck on your artistic journey! There's always room for new voices! You say the goal is "doing what you love and making enough money." If that's the goal, you'll never get so much burnout that you need to quit. The problem is when the goal shifts from making enough, to building an empire. This stuff is absolutely sustainable if we keep it small and costs low. I've been doing it full-time for 15 years and my channel hasn't grown in years. I used to be ashamed by that, and now I've realized it's an asset. Nothing scarier than having a team of people and needing videos to go viral to pay them. I've been there!

[@danielfortune4283]

Thank you for making this video. You may have solved the mystery of what's been holding me back in my life.

[@pauljakeman]

This was a great dive into this subject, I’d wondered why so many were quitting too. It’s a shame they are going, but I bet they will welcome the change of pace. I’m guessing some will come back in the future but will probably just do what videos they like, when they feel like it. This was a really great video buddy! You raised some awesome points for us all to think of.

[@notbengordon]

Thank you very much! This was a thoughtful comment

[@jbivphotography]

Great video and an amazing subject. It's something I personally deal with myself as right now we're a family of 7 on one income, which is my KZbin income. Luckily I'm a wedding photographer as well however that job also is kind of the same issue that KZbin has. Taking something creative that you love and turning it into a job. A lot of it really is just balancing everything well to get paid but also still be creative. But at the end of the day a job is a job. It's rough stuff. Great video. Keep it up!

[@joshforth]

Completely resonate with this bro! Filmmaking quickly turned into a chore for me when I started trying to make money with it. All I ever wanted to do is just make films for fun and for the art itself. The key like you said is to have a different source of income that isn't tied the "success" of your art.

[@gachacaca6343]

Nice Video. The reason I speculate on why so many KZbinrs are leaving is because they feel burnt out or they want to focus on another topic that they are passionate About, I’m also gonna retire eventually because I’ve been doing KZbin for 10 years Straight. Good luck on your channel 🍀!

[@BrisbaneChannel]

Great video. I was on the verge of shutting down my (admittely tiny, relatively speaking) channel, but then just decided to do it for the intrinsic reward - basically doing videos I enjoy making. 2024 will be the year to see if that decision makes a difference.

[@notbengordon]

I think it’s amazing that you managed to gain a nice following from such a niche topic! Just subscribed so I can also see if it made a difference.

[@DagwoodDogwoggle]

I'm 0:32 in, and I can answer this question. And this applies to any career, hobby, past time - for me it was martial arts. When you're building something, eventually you reach a point where it's finished. It's built. You loved building it, and you love what you built. But it's done and you're ready to move on. If Not Ben Gordon is a successful channel and everything goes great, some day you too will sit back with a mug of whatever you like, take a sip, smile, and say, "Aaaahhh. Finished." That's called winning at life.

[@notbengordon]

This comment made me so happy, you have no idea! And it adds to a change in my thoughts I just had yesterday after seeing MatPat’s video about him quitting KZbin, he seems to be leaving for the reason you gave, which is a much better reason than just not enjoying what you do anymore.

[@adamkwratten]

Brilliant video, I work in as a video editor in an advertising agency and recently I have been losing passion for the work that I use to love to do.

[@NotYoutube-cp3qg]

That's a great feeling that they feel like they worked so hard, and there are endless consumer's who destroy their life through yt content consumption.

[@wildzenventures]

Sounds like good advice! I do agree that when you are forced to do something that used to be a hobby can really change the parameters of that hobby. Good Luck to you! Cheers

[@leoandroid5528]

Great vid. Here is my 2 cents: I’ve worked with video production for over 10 years now. I resonate with you about no feeling inspired with taking photos on my free time, something I loved to do 7 years ago. My Job is still very creative and I mostly do creative tasks 8 hours a day everyday leading to that I feel uninspired and non-creative on my spare time. I would advice you to spend the next five years trying out as many creative things as possible to get a deeper understanding of what really fuels your creativity and then creating a way to make your living out of that. I don’t believe the idea of splitting your time between being creative and working a “normal job” especially if you want to do social media. Your time is limited and when you get older, have more responsibility, kids, parter, older parents - you will have less time for your self. A creative person like you should spend all your time creating things otherwise life will create tasks for you. You should do what you love, and that is what the rest of the world needs you to do! Keep up the great work and don’t listen to older people like me or other KZbinrs telling you what to do. 😊

[@notbengordon]

Wow thank you for your response! I appreciate it a lot!

[@veronikamarsland]

I wonder if it comes down to expectations. Expecting that a creative job will always feel creative and fun whereas any job has boring, tedious elements. Knowing yourself is key. Its the base for everything. And i agree with the previous comment - as you get older youll have almost no time outside of your work, family and other commitments. Finding your own path without basing it on what others do is hard and it takes time. But so worth it. So looking what other youtubers or creatives do can be helpful but only afyer you've figure out what YOU want. I hope that makes sense.

[@leoandroid5528]

Very true Veronika! I agree with you 👍

[@barbaragruenenfelder]

thank you for these viewpoints! i experienced similar challenges outside of youtube and i am thankful for your reminder!

[@diamondlabelfilms]

They haven't quit until a substantial amount of time has passed. For all we know they could be cashing in on the quitting hype

[@BitRench]

Can remember watching an artist that I used to enjoy watching do paintings try to do an upload while she was on her xmas holidays with her folks, she was crying at the pressure of posting weekly videos and not enjoying the time off with the family. Seemed a pretty sad existence, she ended up giving up.

[@notbengordon]

Wow, that's where I'm most afraid of ending up..

[@BitRench]

​@@notbengordon I always think if someone puts so much into the artwork, then has to edit and voiceover a video, add some b-roll and then promote it, it's easy to see how people burn out.

[@CommoditySC]

​@@BitRench That's why you can batch videos, and then when you want or need time off, you post ones you made months earlier.

[@bluebellbell3725]

There are many ways to create ”passive income” online as a way to pay (some bills). Pod, selling digital courses etc. That way you don’t have to depend fully on KZbin or the ”passion job”. It takes 3-5 years to build different income source, but for creative people that’s in for the long game it’s worth it.

[@MobyGoCollection]

You might think I am crazy but I think what's going on is that we needed the 50 year jubilee to reset everything in the late 90s. I think that somehow we inverted reality and now we are performing and working constantly and everybody is exhausted and confused.

[@GavinPotter]

It's an idiotic mindset to think that any job you do will be fun all the time. As soon as you start doing something for money, whether its your passion or not, you will have to churn out content/products the market wants and not necessarily what you want, do tasks you dont want to do and work like hell. If you want to just create videos, then do it as a hobbie with no pressure. I write music for TV part-time, while it's fun, there are a tonne of tasks that are aweful and there is a lof of work for little reward, but you either suck it up or do it for yourself. I decided a while ago, to write music for TV with no expectation of ever doing it full-time because I want to enjoy it without the pressure.

[@BuildMontage]

KZbin is the ultimate hamster wheel. I'm not a big channel but the amount of work I have to put in to get the views I do get is why I have considered quitting many times... the last year things changed and views dropped significantly as a shift toward TikTok happened. How it feels for me is that the algorithm will make it really hard to get a push, but will kill a video really quickly .. anyway... 4 years in I still feel like I have no idea what I'm doing. Cool video mate, I wish you success on the platform.

[@isaiahmcclure8894]

As some one else that just started taking KZbin a bit more serious, I totally agree.It seems left and right someone else is quitting. Anyway your vid looks good man! Keep going!

[@Quackalope]

Hey! KZbin sent me this :) nice job getting into the algorithm!

[@KevinLe]

You really did a bang up job on this monologue. It resonates heavily with me as I too have noticed this trend with creators who turned KZbin into a business - Matt D'avela for one. Even Casey Neistat recently in a podcast shared that same sentiment. My wife and I are creatives - She's a graphic designer, I'm a full-time content creator and strategist, and we're getting more into creating for ourselves as a way to keep practicing our craft, and putting out content as a way to just put out a good message to the world and share our hardships, lessons and stuff. It's not what it's all cracked up to be, but there's a way to find balance in all of it.

[@CorsoandMastiffadventures]

Running a small YT channel and hanging out with a few other. It amazes me people approach that they can not put the camera down or enjoy something without trying to capture and share it. But I am also a low effort channel haha

[@DanTheScrewUp]

Nice video, well articulated and well made, congrats on having a video hit hard. I understand where you are coming from as someone that recently started doing KZbin aswell, seeing all the people leaving and talking about how burnt out or dissatisfied with the "job" they are is a bit worrying but i will persevere and I wish you all the best in your journey.

[@notbengordon]

I appreciate that a lot, and good luck to you as well!

[@Rejoin_2023]

I'll worry about this when the time comes

[@JasonDaytona]

Great video. So much to unpack and discuss around this topic. I began my creative life as an artist, photographer, filmmaker (back when you had to use real film) and actor. Toward the end of high school I decided to enroll in film school, which lasted one year and I returned home and completed an associates degree in Journalism, then went to work at my father's sign shop and got married. Ten years ago my wife and I started our own sign business. Being self employed with a brick and mortar store has all the issues you described with being a full-time KZbinr. I actually kind of miss the days of working for someone else; putting in my day and then going home, having weekends off and paid vacations and holidays. When we started our business we worked 60 hours a week, sometimes more. But the business also afforded me the ability to buy music gear and build a home studio and record my first album. So I had time and money to pursue other creative endeavors. I've been running my first KZbin channel for a couple years and back in November just reached 1000 subs. My goal is to become a full time KZbinr. I can see how it might lead to creative burn out, but my day job already creates creative burn out, but at least if I was a full time KZbinr, I wouldn't have to maintain a shop, with regular hours and could work from home. I think the moment you turn your passion into a job, it becomes a job. It's just how it goes. So unless you work for someone else, and you don't have to think about your business, you will think about your business, whether it is a brick and mortar shop or a KZbin channel. The world revolves around making money. It is what it is. But if you can gain control over your career and do something where you know you're not going to get fired for being late one day or laid off because of downsizing, at least you'll have that stability. Sure, I worry about whether we'll have enough work to pay our bills each month (we've never had a problem) and will probably worry about having enough likes or subscribers being a KZbinr, but at least I'll be doing what I want. My other channel, the one that reached 1000 subs is about music. I can pretty much make videos about anything related to that broad topic, so the content ideas are almost endless. During my day at the sign business, I'm about to put graphics on an ambulance for a company that we've been working with since we started. I can't tell you how many of these ambulances I have done, but it's a lot. I feel like a robot sometimes, just doing the same thing over and over. Another thing, I think these KZbinrs that are "quitting" will still be making money off their channels even if they don't post content. At least for a while. So it might be easier for someone with a huge following and lots of content to say they are quitting than someone like us, with fewer viewers and less content. If we quit, we'd vanish pretty much. Also, they may quit for a couple years and then come back. So it may not really be "quitting" in the strictest sense. Again, very well done video. Also...be safe out there.

[@notbengordon]

Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a lengthy and thoughtful comment, I love your perspective. and good luck with the channel, you sound like a serious person, I'm sure you'll manage to make it work!

[@bumblingvibes]

I owned a 6fig photography business that I closed this past Dec. I used to love photography but I ended up hating it. During those 3 years I never went out to take my own photos like I used to. Closing my business was such a relief.

[@notbengordon]

Wow! I'm curious if you'll find that you start enjoying photography agin like you used to after a while of not doing it as a job. I'd love to hear about it if that happens. And I see you're starting on KZbin as well, good luck with it!

[@bumblingvibes]

@@notbengordon thank you! picking up a camera to take photos still reminds me of work but i am hoping I am able to get back to loving it again soon!

[@MC-zw5gf]

Can’t believe that you only have a few 100 subs, this video was so engaging, so well written, so well paced I could go on and on. Super excited to see your future work!!

[@notbengordon]

Wow, thank you!

[@TruckHouseLife]

The key to making it sustainable is to just create what you love creating and nothing more.

[@notbengordon]

One of the big reasons I’m happy this video did well is because I got comments from people with different cool channels like yours. Sharing your channel with my father, he loves your type of content!

[@TruckHouseLife]

Thanks man haha! Maybe c u guys out there sometime on the road:) @@notbengordon

[@philippineantics]

Burn out is real. Im an American living in Philippines , 3 years in , it seems like 9-5 7 day week for $300 month . No growth in over a year . I love it and will continue .

[@zoegonzales9347]

This was an awesome video for someone just starting out because you provide great insight on how not to go down that path of no longer enjoying your own creations! I've had a few ideas on the back burner and now I have a much better understanding on how to implement one for as business and keep the other for passion! Thank you 🙏🏼

[@notbengordon]

I’m so happy this video ended up being helpful for people! Thank you for your comment!

[@edgarbraganza]

I'm so glad I ran into this video. Really gave me something to ponder upon. Have been thinking about factors that make it sustainable to stay on KZbin in a long run. And this video gave me tips on just that. All the best with your content creation journey. I can see that we both are in the same boat. Lets hope we eventually find our balance.

[@BeamngTV]

I work a full time job as well because KZbin income is so unstable and It was stressing me. Now KZbin is fun for me again and I feel free doing videos

[@MichaelOrtega]

I’m on the same boat. I’ve been doing KZbin for over 12 years and if it wasn’t because I have a regular daytime job, I probably would be at 1 million subscribers. But I have children and it’s not about what I want anymore. 5 years ago is when I had my first kid anyways it’s amazing to share creations with the public and the love of the art is what keeps me going.

[@lb6056]

I have noticed creators absolutely losing it and disappearing never to be heard from again and it’s bizarre. One even moved to a new home with a basement just so she could have a studio space to create, made one video in that space and disappeared four years ago and hasn’t been on YT since. Another joined a cult, and yet another is so desperate for views and money that she puts no effort in any more and is uploading crap like four times a day that’s as minimal as her eating cookies, chips and cereal without saying a word (needless to say, I unsubscribed!). Thank you for the video and to the creators that you featured that at least have enough respect for themselves and their loyal viewers to say a thoughtful goodbye.

[@julianfarquhar]

Its the same with all creative work. After a while if you do not change direction, take a break, or do something tangible you will be exhausted. The solution is looking after your physical world, and changing tack periodically. I say this after 40 years as an old creative.

[@Kalitayy]

They're just retiring. When you have basically beat the game, you just don't know what else to do other than quitting or do something else. If I had hundreds of millions that I don't have to go to work anymore, I would also just take a step back and try new things. They've earned it. They've won at life.

[@notbengordon]

Fare enough, I like this answer.

[@AccurateEnglish]

I doubt that a lot of the people quitting KZbin made hundreds of millions. Many are quitting who've made a lot less. Making videos is lonely, hard work. The algorithm doesn't allow to you take a break. And you need to bring passion, energy and enthusiasm to every single video. It can take a toll on your mental health.

[@Rufio1975]

​@@AccurateEnglish Yes it's fun. But like anything that you want to be successful, people need to realize it's going to take work. Did people forget that? It's not always going to be 💯 fun. There will be aspects of it that you won't find as fun but it's part of it and you have to do it.

[@aicreativedirector]

Tv show runners, stars and crew get bored on same series and leave for a new challenge. Movies are creative projects with finite time frames. Books in theory, the same. Always need a "there's a next mountain" even if it's just a concept of what might be interesting in 5 years.

[@notbengordon]

@@AccurateEnglishI love that there are actual back and forth conversations going on in the comments here, and I love that even big creators like you are here giving your thoughts! I appreciate it a lot 🫶

[@nataliesweet-cw6cr]

They made a ton of money, got tired of doing this particular thing and moved on. I don't think it's a secret thing. Probably also got stressed dealing with the business side as it got bigger, and most of these people probably weren't prepared for that aspect

[@Paul_Wetor]

When your hobby becomes your job, that takes some of the fun out of it. Pleasure becomes an obligation.

[@weblearnt123]

Bro I'm an aspiring content creator but it's an extension of my business. I'm so glad you made this puts everything in perspective Excellent work.

[@thesouthernwoodsmanuk216]

I have always from the beginning of setting up a you tube channel decided this is going to be a hobby only. A video log of what I am thinking and the places I go where I never know the outcome of what is going to happen. Thanx for a great video. Very inspiring

[@JoseLuRu]

This a raw realty and watching all those videos and yours as well just confirmed the same thing. I hope I don't burnout soon and keep doing vidros without burnout too much. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

[@CDGbyGraziaCosta]

Honestly, I'm relieved to have a regular part-time job. Content creation is really tough, chasing views, sponsorships, checking on metrics all the time, the financial instability, not everybody understands the rules of this game.

[@SonduckFilm]

The moment you feel like you HAVE to create content in order to make money (to pay the bills and/or make payroll for your team) or just meet deadlines years on end, it's downhill from there.

[@samhayek_]

Congrats on your win with this video :) Just starting too and it was freaking me out a little. Empathize as I’ve had some of the same experience/feelings with my last startup. A sobering reminder not to let it happen with this.

[@paulmilakeve]

Great video and well done research. I do hope you find that balance. What is going on with content creation is similar to what we see in most other creative endeavors like acting and music. When you HAVE to do something to meet your needs it becomes less fun.

[@Shrimptank]

All of the "How to succeed on KZbin" classes say you have to focus on the viewer, not on yourself. But I like the one for you, one for me method. You never know what the viewer wants, and you're here to share YOUR passion and YOUR kinow how, so don't make it all for the faceless people. Make stuff you like too.

[@JackieDElia]

I enjoyed this video. Good points to consider. I started a KZbin channel in October and of course it’s too new to make any money from, but that is not the reason I started it. I’m at a point in my life where I want to share the things I’m passionate about and if it does not money - that’s ok. But I do like the idea of combining the two where your passion supports your income. I think that’s a good suggestion for younger folks to consider.

[@epicautomotivedetailing]

KZbin just evolves. Once you have one video blow up it's difficult when others don't do the same. Mentally KZbin is exhausting and I think tik tok and KZbin shorts is partly to blame

[@notbengordon]

This is only my 5th video (since I started posting again) and it’s getting WAY more views than I expected. I’m happy it’s getting views, but also kinda scared about it happening so fast..

[@epicautomotivedetailing]

@@notbengordon I clicked thumbnail straight away. You nailed it mate great video

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

Sadly, that term "Job" keeps coming up. It's not a job, they're/we're not employees. We're independent artists and the art comes first... the audience will decide if it's the art they want. So keep it simple, enjoy the process, don't overcomplicate it, and realize it's a canvas for you to express yourself on... not a job. Follow your path with passion and money will come as a biproduct, you don't have to focus on the money.

[@slcrooks]

Super job of thinking this through. I wish us all this kind of wisdom. Thank you for the video, it’s resonating a lot.

[@8020drummer]

If I was in a mastermind with any of these guys here’s what I’d say: If you have enough money to quit cold turkey you also have enough to suffer the algo hit from making what you want instead of just serving the algo.

[@brendanpatrickmusic]

The best KZbin channels are ones born from just capturing things you’d already be doing regardless of if you posted about it or not. I’ve been saying for a while now that KZbin was never meant to be a business, it was just something that kind of evolved and then many people thought there was no other way.

[@notbengordon]

But then you have people like Mr. Beast, who decided they’re gonna be a successful KZbinr from the beginning. If you truly would’ve created the content just as something you enjoy doing, and don’t care about posting/getting views, why even post it in the first place? I believe there are very few KZbinrs like that.

[@brendanpatrickmusic]

@@notbengordon True. They wouldn’t have any content posted at all, so that basically eliminates anyone who’s ever posted anything 😂 I started posting to KZbin for fun and to share my work, but like many others I can’t say I wouldn’t strongly consider jumping on the opportunity to use it as a business if I had the chance. The beauty in KZbin is that you’re free to use it however you’d like, however the downside in my opinion is that people see Mr. Beast use the platform in a calculated executive business minded way and assume they can use it as a get rich quick scheme. This creates loads of growth coach types, shovel salesman, and corporate guru types coming on here telling you how to get rich.

[@notbengordon]

@@brendanpatrickmusicYes, very well said!

[@VickiONeill]

Love all the elements and storytelling. Nicely done! The topic is one that new KZbinrs need to know about it especially if they want to monetize their channel. Thank you for creating this! It should be a pre-requisite for content creators.

[@JonesingFinance]

This is a great breakdown. Keep it up!

[@Asier_99projects]

Surprised when i saw that you have just over 600 subscribers, thought that i missed few digits... Keep it up, you have the spark that is needed for KZbin!

[@BraveBladeProductions]

Working a job you love is still working a job, we all get tired if things become too much. Creative work can be rewarding, but also incredibly draining at times.

[@TheCryoChampionEvolution]

So cool to hear another film makers journey in content creation. Love the growth mindset. I worked on big budget shows and things like that was always struggling to keep my head up when all I did was work then getting to make my passions.

[@cnawak]

Very interesting take! The "one for you, one for them" is a cool idea. And fueling one passion with the other is great too. I'm happy I stumbled upon your channel. All the best to you!

[@Michael_Robinson]

I just retired from a 35 year career in the computer industry. Although I would describe my career as good, at no time was it fulfilling or meaningful. That’s prompted me to look back and evaluate my career choices. I wondered if I should have taken a chance, quit my job and pursued something more fulfilling, like photography. But more and more I hear things like the examples you shared that show the down side of doing what you love to make money. I’ve reached the conclusion that I’m probably better off by keeping work and passion separate. Great video!

[@notbengordon]

Thank you for sharing!

[@IntrepidIanRinon]

As a fellow small creator, I do notice that the big guys on KZbin are diversifying.

[@bizaaron]

I’m not subscribed but your video came up in my suggested feed. I love topics and discussions like this and I was quite pleased to hear that what you have suggested is already something I’m doing; have my own business that fuels my hobby, in my case it’s simply the time and flexibility to be creative and make videos every day. I also alternate between videos that are fun and easy to make every day, and a much better, longer, and more involved video once in a while. So far, this seems to be working well for me! I’ll check out the rest of your channel.

[@notbengordon]

It’s really nice to see that it actually work in real life. I appreciate you for sharing!

[@MichaelSuperbacker]

6:32 This is so real. I’ve been thinking about that in my case. For the real big ideas I have I want the video to be perfect to make the most success, where other ideas I am just making for myself 😮

[@BrainofQuinn]

FANTASTIC VIDEO! Talking about a topic I've been seeing around lately and also something I myself am trying to confront and try to figure out what I need to do so that when I get to where I want to be I want to keep creating. Great topic, great example with the podcast and then you talk about your own experience and how you feel about this topic. You had my attention very quick and you kept me through the video! Also GREAT edits & good flow!

[@wealthbytes]

I ran into this with my current business (not KZbin). It's a massive grind and I missed so many things with my kids. You don't really understand it until you have done it and you understand their burn out. Their desire to enjoy what they do. It's not so easy but it's fulfilling to know when to turn things off and move to something else.

[@MaxMcGuireCPA]

What’s your describing is exactly what I’m trying to do. I have an accounting business that is not really my passion, but pays the bills. However, I plan to build my KZbin channel to talk about the things I’m more passionate about until it potentially might replace the income from my accounting business. But there’s not a lot of pressure on it.

[@MichaelMartello]

Really great video from start to finish! I used to think I wanted to do YT full time but I realize I'm enjoying it more as my side passion project that comes with a bit of side income. Totally agree with this.

[@DarneIITV]

Agree

[@BatteryPoweredBricks]

I've been uploading a video or often 2 a week for 2 years. It still feels fun, but I've made strong efforts to keep it that way. I don't ever intend it to be a full time profession. At my day job I am a Video Service Technician. When I first started I was enamored by pinball machines. After working on them for years, getting service calls for them on nights and weekends I couldn't care less about them. There are several other examples of this throughout my life. I make the videos I want to make and while I do like to improve myself I am not obsessed with "making it big". I don't chase viral hits or trending topics. I just upload whatever I want. I get a bit stressed every now and then staying on a self imposed schedule but try to set my goals well within reach. It's stayed fun so far

[@notbengordon]

This seems like the best way to go about it. And I’m happy to see it actually works in real life!

[@mchervino]

I 100% agree with having a career, and then having something creative as a side hustle. In my case, I've been a nurse for 25 years. It's my bread and butter. I'm blessed in that my job is only 3 days a week full time. This allows me plenty of time for my creative passion - photography. I've been able to slowly develop myself into a semi-professional photographer and I've authored a book that features mostly my work (I photograph local to me cultural things, like artifacts and physical remnants from my local area's prehistory.) It's been a hell of a trip and this book has opened many wonderful doors for me. Sure I've made some money from these endeavors, but I feel no pressure to make much. Who cares, I'm loving doing what I enjoy doing.

[@EJKelly]

Real good The timing for this couldn't be better. Had this very discussion with a friend. I find learning new stuff helps.

[@SickoMyselfTV]

i totally understand where they're coming from... but I want this. So I'll keep my day job for now and keep growing and hope I wont have to ever film a "goodbye" video your new sub -Sick

[@markjodonohue]

I enjoyed this video mate, and feel like I needed to hear it. It's easy to get caught up in creating content and lose sight of why we do it in the first place. Most creators starting out (myself included) likely have a goal of "quitting" their 9-5 in order to be a full time creator. Having watched your video I'm definitely rethinking this, and will consider if that's a goal I should even have. Perhaps not!

[@DarneIITV]

Same

[@baruchsalgado1790]

you edited this video so well that I couldnt help but watch the video until all of a sudden it finished. I really think it comes down to mindset. Once you start seeing content creating as work and no longer a passion thats when you begin to burn out. It can be a hard balance for sure. I wish you the best on your journey

[@notbengordon]

Thank you! That means a lot!

[@Flairis]

I got recommended this video, this was a good watch! had a good amount of pacing, and well articulated content. 👍

[@alexsurmer]

Very good vidéo ! I am a film maker freelance and the mistake a lot of filmmakers do is think that their passion is video. its not. their passion is a topic. On my case i love the sea. My passion is Film AND the Ocean. + is you get high ticket clients and you juste need 6 or 7 to live, you can chose them so no more annoying clients.

[@notbengordon]

This is an interesting perspective I haven’t thought of, I feel like you’re right. Thank you for sharing!

[@findouty]

incredible video! Super underrated channel keep going

[@sabrinamariamusic]

What a wonderful video. Thank you - you will go a long way with content like this. I’m a singer/songwriter and I can’t remember the last time I wrote something because of social media taking up so much of my time. The key is to keep it as a hobby and not let it become a business.

[@FamilyFamilia]

Awesome video!! Good script, I could watch from beginning to end without felling time passes by... Congratulations!!

[@notbengordon]

Thanks a lot! I’m happy you enjoyed.

[@nalahwright]

I really enjoyed this video. This discussion about successful KZbinrs quitting was intriguing, and you introduced me to creators I’ve never heard of before. After starting my first channel, I discovered the same takeaway as you-creating content purely for monetary reasons is stress-inducing and uninspiring. Interestingly, I’ve found it much smoother to grow my second channel without the pressure of needing the income. Wishing you continued success on your KZbin journey!

[@WYDKLOVE]

Good words!

[@nalahwright]

@@WYDKLOVE THANK YOU!

[@JCContenidos]

Great video. I'm currently in a similar situation. I'm managing a growing KZbin channel and Instagram account that does comedy sketches. We have been starting to work for brands and the process it's always way more stressful than just making videos that we enjoy. Having an extra job gives you the ability to say no when work you know is going to suck comes your way. It's a dream of mine to just focus on content creation, and not have to do other work, but some might not be as perfect as one thinks. Thanks again for the video, keep it up!!

[@toddnichols6153]

Thought-provoking video! My passion for learning and understanding ‘why’ led me to engineering, but I’ve been burnt out. This video has given me ideas on re-invigorating my career, for which I’m grateful.

[@notbengordon]

This makes me so happy to hear! Good luck!

[@pdtech4524]

Many factors, including burn out, creators block where you run out of content iseas and just plain old, wanting a life outside of 'social media'! 😊

[@fsphotographic7683]

The problem of burnout is not limited to KZbinrs or any other type of content creation. Its not even limited to any type of work. Any person who turns a passion into a full-time venture, to do on their own, will realize sooner or later that it became a business with many demands. Many times, people only want to do their passion and get paid for it without getting the needed help to run a business. Others believe that in order to do their their passion that they must get paid for it, rather than to just make a living in another profession to support their passion. The worse killer of them all is when any artist, creator of any kind, starts to feed the beast. That beast makes you believe that you must fulfill its hunger and its demands in order to be successful. The beast can be the public or a boss who will push in order to get what it wants. It will work to move you away from your true passion. Success can only be gained when one refuse to feed the beast and do what is your passion.

[@Arlene_witha_y]

I just started my channel too This is proof of what I’ve been saying for years Anything when done too much by obligation becomes a chore

[@robespierrearaujo6200]

Great video coming at a great time for me. Keep up the good work!!!