How to Start Making Content
I spent the weekend with my college roommate, Kierstyn. We’ve been friends for over 12 years now. She’s a fantastic cook and a wonderful mom. She’s bold, outspoken, creative and funny, and I’ve been telling her for ages that she should start making videos on TikTok, mostly just because I think it would be a great creative outlet for her.
This weekend, when we were together, I asked her, “What do you think is the biggest thing holding you back?”
She replied, “Looking stupid. It’s something I’m not comfortable with yet, so it feels embarrassing.”
“What would make you actually do it?” I asked.
“Getting the f*ck over myself and realizing it’s not that big of a deal,” she responded.
“Yes!!” I exclaimed, laughing. That’s it.
For each of us, that timeline looks different, and I don’t think there’s a “how-to” article that will actually teach you how to have this mindset shift. Ultimately, your desire to create eventually outweighs the possibility of looking stupid.
And when that day comes, here’s what to do.
Desire is all you need to get started. Just wanting to create is enough. There's no pressure. Remember, you’re not going to transition from a novice to an expert overnight. It’s a journey, not a race. So, take it easy on yourself. This should be fun.
Next, decide on what you want to create. Start with one video! Just one idea is all you need. There’s no need to stress over devising the perfect strategy or setting up a detailed content calendar at this stage. Your primary focus should be on giving shape to your idea. What’s that one thing you’ve always wanted to create but never got around to?
Now it’s time to bring your vision to life. Create the video. Don’t rush yourself. There’s no need to impose unrealistic expectations on yourself when it comes to how much time it should take. Creating good content is a process that can’t be rushed. It’s going to take however long it’s going to take. Be patient with yourself and be prepared to invest some time in it.
Once your video is ready, send it to a friend for some constructive feedback and encouragement. Their perspectives can provide you with valuable insights for improvement. Also, joining a supportive community of content creators can be incredibly helpful and inspiring.
When you’re ready, post the video and share it with your friends. Invite them to engage with your content. Having their support will feel encouraging, not to mention, there’s a better chance your video will get seen by more people.
Repeat this process and keep creating. Each new piece of content is a new opportunity for growth and learning. Keep at it and don’t lose momentum!
Personal Branding Tip
I know if you’re reading this, you’re a creative person. You’re smart. You have great ideas and chances are, whatever you create, granted that it’s authentic to you, is going to be great. I truly don’t think anything you make will be “embarrassing.”
Something that helps me as a content creator is recognizing that every time I feel embarrassed, it’s a sign that I’m trying. It’s a sign that I’m working on something that’s important to me. Instead of being overly critical of my work, I remind myself that the effort is worth feeling satisfied by.
Personal Question
What’s an idea you have for a video? What’s holding you back from making it? What’s the worst thing that would happen if you actually posted it? What’s the best?
