A few weeks ago, I embarked on a journey on my YouTube channel, called Dear Diary. In this series I open up and share my thoughts about what’s happening in my life. I also discuss the things I need to navigate and show what I’m doing. It’s been a way for me to connect with myself and also with my audience. The truth is, I’ve been grappling with this concept for quite some time. I even considered writing a post about friendships, but the motivation to bring that idea to life just hasn’t surfaced yet. It often takes me a while to craft my “best” work, but I am realizing being consistent is key to sparking inspiration. This brings me to this Dear Diary entry.
I held a live Q&A on YouTube recently, and someone asked how do I stay motivated to create content. To be honest, I was taken aback by the question because I had to really think about what motivates me. I can’t say that I’m always in a state of motivation because, quite frankly, I’m not. As I sit here writing this post, I find myself in a similar situation. I realized I felt lost. I sat staring at my computer for a good 10 minutes, trying to figure out my next step. My motivation should come from my lack of or my need for but honestly it hasn’t.
I’m feeling lost!
For the past month or 2, I have been navigating the challenging job application process, facing rejection after rejection, which has truly taken its toll on me. It’s been hard not to question my worth; while I know my value isn’t defined by my job status, I sometimes find myself feeling unemployable. I understand that’s not the reality, yet I can’t shake the feeling of uncertainty about what I am doing wrong. I’m aware that interviews are not my strongest suit, and the struggle to even secure one has somewhat affected me. The sleepless nights and restless days have been tough, but I’ve had to push myself to stay creative. I would get up and create videos when I didn’t feel like it just to push through. When one aspect of my life feels heavy, it often spills over and impacts other areas, which is difficult as an emotional person to navigate.
As time passes, I find creating to be an exciting adventure, and now my motivation stems from my wish to succeed and see the things I create thrive. Am I chasing a dream? Absolutely not! While I’ve sometimes struggled to see myself as a content creator, an “Influencer” or even a brand, which has hurt me, I know that my journey is unique and valuable. I love the ability to share my life with others but I also find YouTube is a place that keeps me honest, because I get to revisit content that I have tried, or things I have challenged myself to and “failed”. It also proves that if I would just stick to it, I can have success.
I haven’t always treated my YouTube and this blog as a professional outlet. My lack of vision in the past hasn’t allowed me to fully embrace this journey. I’ve been distracted by life happening around me but I recognize the importance of focusing on these platforms, as they are and will be an excellent source of income for me.
I’m feeling optimistic!
Being motivated while having challenges like financial constraints, privacy issues, and moments of low inspiration has been hard. I plan my content around other’s schedule, I use what I have until I can no longer use it. I also get very resourceful with my surroundings. I do my best with what I have to get the job done. I’m committed to finding my motivation and keeping my creativity alive, no matter how many times I start over. Let’s face it, this is my job now and in order for me to be successful I am going to have to invest more and carve out my own lane.
Some of my best ideas arise when I navigate through challenges, akin to the experience of creating my YouTube channel. I began my channel during a time when I felt lost and overwhelmed with doubt, not knowing my next move, a feeling many can relate to. I too faced the fear of being judged, judged by strangers and judged by those I knew. Again fear has been a driving force in my life since I was a child and doing YouTube has allowed me to break those barriers down. I relate to the desire to pursue what I love which can be daunting but also fulfilling. This is one of those times. I feel lost, not knowing my next move. I have clear goals that are my driving force, propelling me onward. I will be debt-free; I will achieve financial stability; I will start my family; I will create a life where I can sustain myself independently. These are the things I want and will achieve.
Keeping moving onward!
Although limited resources have posed obstacles, I am determined to overcome them. I recognize that my past inconsistency has held me back, but as I finish my last year in my 30s, I am ready for change. I have began to put more effort into creating on YouTube, and I see how it’s positively affecting both my channel and my creative flow. I will be honest with myself and tear down the walls of fear and doubt. I am learning as I go, and I am confident that I will emerge a stronger and better person because of this.
If I can give anyone advice, it’s to seize the moment and just try! Embrace the fear, for yes, there’s much that can go wrong, but there’s an even greater universe of possibilities waiting to be discovered! Never give up, ignite your passion, plan meticulously, and execute with unwavering determination! YOU GOT THIS!
How do you stay motivated?
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