# The Essential Role of Support for Every YouTuber's Journey
Written on
Chapter 1: Understanding the Solo Creator Experience
At first glance, it seems that the Mark Ellis Reviews brand is solely managed by me. I am the face of this venture, taking on the roles of writer, editor, publisher, community manager, and even the tea maker. However, this narrative is only part of the truth.
When I transitioned to full-time content creation earlier this year, I recognized the challenges ahead. I was effectively sidelining half of my business income to embark on a career that depends on the clicks of strangers on the internet.
This endeavor operates without customers and entails one of the most unpredictable revenue streams imaginable. It relies on borrowed audiences, fortunate breaks, and the caprices of massive platforms. Yet, I wouldn't trade this for anything; I feel incredibly fortunate to pursue this path.
The reason for my current position boils down to one individual, and it serves as a crucial lesson for every creator striving to establish their own brand: we cannot succeed without substantial support from others.
Section 1.1: The Isolation of Content Creation
Creating content can be an isolating experience. If I neglect to write, film, or edit a video, there’s no one to step in for me. This blog post wouldn’t have come to life if I hadn’t managed to drag myself out of bed at 6 a.m. today.
“Hey, could you write tomorrow’s blog?”
But there’s no response—because there is no one else. Unless you’re a high-profile creator like Marques Brownlee, you likely don’t have a dedicated team backing your brand. While I do have an accountant and am gradually enlisting external help for daily tasks, the bulk of this business is managed by me. This solitude can sometimes be overwhelming, prompting me to forge friendships with other creators for camaraderie and support.
Subsection 1.1.1: Combating Loneliness as a Creator
Everyone needs friends to lean on, especially in this line of work.
Chapter 2: Embracing the Uncertainty of Content Creation
The first video, "YouTubers Need to STOP Promoting BetterHelp," discusses the potential pitfalls of promoting brands without careful consideration. It emphasizes the importance of integrity and the responsibility creators have toward their audiences.
The unpredictable nature of content creation is another reality I face. While there are strategies for establishing a more stable income, the initial phase often relies on ad revenue, affiliate marketing, and earnings from partner programs. Each of these income sources can fluctuate significantly, and creators have little control over their performance.
I’ve invested considerable time into creating certain YouTube videos that I found deeply enjoyable, only to see them perform poorly. Conversely, I’ve released content that felt less inspired, only to be surprised by its success.
The second video, "How DELETING YouTube Videos Could Grow Your Channel," explores the unconventional strategy of removing less effective content to enhance overall channel performance. It serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of audience engagement.
Ultimately, it’s crucial for creators to understand that no one owes them anything. The platforms we use to share our work don't have any obligation towards us, nor do our audience members. All we can do is persist, stay consistent, and hope for a stroke of luck.
My Pillar of Support
“You have to do this,” said my girlfriend, Jen, when I expressed my desire to go full-time with the Mark Ellis Reviews brand.
This context is vital: at the time, Jen was pregnant with our first child, fully aware of the risks I was taking by leaving my other business behind. Many would have understood if she had cautioned against this decision, but instead, she has been my unwavering support throughout this journey.
I have spent countless hours working on my laptop while she enjoyed her favorite shows, often needing to apologize for working on weekends. Despite my preoccupation with business matters, Jen remains patient, reminding me of our previous conversations that I’ve overlooked. I truly appreciate her understanding; I couldn’t ask for a better partner.
Although she never appears on camera, Jen is the true driving force behind Mark Ellis Reviews, and I couldn't have reached this point without her. Here’s to all the supportive partners out there—you are invaluable!
Take my free video editing class
My latest Skillshare class, "Video Editing Basics in Final Cut Pro X (for YouTube Success!)," is now available and free to try!
If you enjoy my writing, it’s just a glimpse of what I share on Medium. I am a paying member myself and highly recommend joining. Click here to support my work!