My YouTube Channel 1 Year in
It’s been a little over a year since I launched my YouTube channel, and I thought it was time to reflect on this journey that has completely changed my life.
I created my channel for two main reasons. First, I wanted a space that was entirely mine—a digital corner where I could share the things I’m genuinely passionate about, since I rarely get to do so in real life. Second, and perhaps more importantly, I wanted to make psychological knowledge accessible to everyone. Working in forensic mental health units, I’ve seen firsthand the ripple effects of poor mental health awareness in our society. That’s why I believe psychology should be available to anyone seeking to understand themselves better.
Let me be transparent about the numbers: I reached 500 subscribers, which felt incredible. A few videos performed well, especially considering my small audience. But then came what Seth Godin calls “The Dip.” Recently, I’ve been seeing my metrics stagnate. The Dip, as Godin explains, acts like a filter—it ensures that only those truly serious about the path will push through when things get hard. This challenging phase made me realise that I genuinely want to be a YouTuber—and I don’t want to quit.
Still, I’m trying not to feel discouraged. While my analytics might not be growing, I’ve noticed progress in ways that aren’t always visible. My confidence has transformed. My editing has evolved. My thumbnails are now more intentional and aligned with my brand. I try to remind myself that overnight success is rare. Take Sabrina Carpenter, for example: people think she blew up overnight, but she’s been grinding behind the scenes for years. The same goes for YouTubers like Tam Kaur and Ali Abdaal—their consistent hard work is easy to overlook from the outside.
That said, I still experience fear and doubt. I’m trying to work through them with visualisation and identity work. Each morning, I visualise myself as a successful YouTuber. I ask myself: How would I carry myself if I had 10,000, 100,000, or even 1 million subscribers? What energy would I embody? I find this tactic helpful—it helps my brain normalise those feelings and behaviours, making them feel more within reach. Right now, I can’t rely on external validation, so I’m learning to find it from within. That, for me, is a powerful challenge to overcome.
I also still struggle to see myself as a “YouTuber,” so I’ve started treating my channel as what it truly is: a business. I developed a brand strategy. I conducted a SWOT analysis. I implemented systems that successful businesses use. That mindset shift has been crucial. I may not feel like a YouTuber yet, but I am the owner of a small business I’m trying to grow.
Today, I received a comment that simply said: “Thank you. This was motivating.” At first, I almost dismissed it because I was so focused on the video’s low view count. But then I realised: I motivated one person. One human being was inspired by something I created. And that’s exactly why I started this channel. If I can motivate one person to make a positive change, I’m fulfilling my mission.
Looking ahead to next year, I want to focus more seriously on psychologically informed self-development content, with less experimenting. I’m also working toward a consistent aesthetic and clearer branding. Ultimately, I’d love to build a community—to connect with others on similar journeys and create space for meaningful conversations about personal growth. And yes, I hope to reach monetisation—not just for the financial return (though that does matter), but because it would represent a milestone, a symbol of the value I’m creating.
As I reflect on this year, I’m proud of what I’ve built and the courage it took to step outside my comfort zone. This channel has become more than a creative outlet—it’s a vehicle for personal transformation and, hopefully, a catalyst for positive change in others’ lives. I don’t know what the next year will bring, but I’m excited to find out. Whether I’m talking to 50 subscribers or 50,000, the mission remains the same: making psychological knowledge accessible and helping people become the best versions of themselves.
Lessons Learned
- Progress isn’t always visible
The most meaningful growth often happens behind the scenes. While subscriber counts and view metrics matter, don’t underestimate the value of improved skills, deeper confidence, and increased self-awareness. - One person is enough
Impact isn’t measured solely by reach. Motivating, inspiring, or helping even one person makes your work meaningful. Don’t let the pursuit of big numbers overshadow the real human connections you're building. - Seek internal over external validation
Believing in your skills and potential is essential. It fuels motivation during difficult periods, especially when external feedback is lacking. - The Dip is real—and necessary
Every creator faces periods of stagnation and doubt. These phases act as filters, separating those who are truly committed from those who are just curious. Embracing the Dip as part of the process—not a sign of failure—is crucial for long-term success. - Treat it like a business from day one
Approaching your channel with a business mindset—strategy, branding, systems—accelerates growth and professionalisation. You don’t need to wait until you’re “successful” to think strategically.