Yo! I applaud you for putting family first! and yes to MAKING more things. I think that's one of the biggest draws of your channel is when you make something creative that YOU like... and yeah the lighting is great, and audio is clean, and thumbnail is top notch....I often wonder how much of this is all I our heads, and how much of it is just the good will we've already built up over the years. Its hard to trust that people just want to tune in to see your face and see what's going on from time to time. Personally, with my own struggles, I think I would output more and second guess myself less if I subscribed to that notion, but it's a tough one. Good on you for getting this one off the chest. Can't wait to see what you cook up now.
After being out of the professional video space for over 20 years, I just completed my first documentary. You and Calab's videos were a Godsend when I was navigating my way back into the professional video world three years ago. Grant Petty owes you both some commission on the Blackmagic camera and other BM products I purchased. You both do great work on TH-cam and I look forward to whatever you guys do moving forward. Thank you both!
Thanks man! It's a weird job and I think these kinds of feelings and the tortured artist stuff is inevitable. Hits each of us differently and I think we need to be aware of each of our own tendencies and temptations to fall into our own traps. For example I have no problems with hate/mean comments. Say whatever you want down here I really don't care. But then my chest gets tight when it is time to work on the next video 🤷♂
Amazing video, you’ve put into words a lot of what I’ve been feeling as well, and I’ve only been doing this for 7 years 😂 Looking forward to seeing how things evolve for you + let’s hang if you’re ever in London ❤
Ali!!! Super cool to see you in the comments. Your content has been a huge help over the years. Next time my wife and I are over there we will for sure hit you up! Spent some time in England this summer and loved it! Now to go buy your new book...
@@GxAce responding to Ali's comment on a DSLR Shooter's video... Which I came to watch for inspiration on a compact video rig based on archaic og Eos M... This must be a sign! :D
Don’t go Matt! I hope Peter is not feeling the same? Oh man! 😮💨😔 hey you gotta do what you gotta do. I wont think selfishly here. 🙏 learnt so much from all you guys! Thanks for everything!
It will be hard to take a year off. TH-cam changed there policy. If you dont poat for 6 months you will be demonized. I doubt people want to lose that.
This is the 2nd video I've watched today that has the same ideas, and feels like someone saying outloud, the stuff that I've had in my head for a couple of years. Thanks for articulating this. I hope these changes are good for you, personally and for the business 👍🏼 Good on you, keep it up! -Bob
Thank you so much bob! Been eating your content up since before you quit your day job to go full-time with the channel. Wish we were closer so I could swing by to chat and help with the car!
This year I'm seeing many TH-camrs stepping away from content creation for a break. Appreciate all the knowledge you have shared so far. Did learn many things from you.
Huge fan of yours and really happy to hear you're making a shift like this to make the job work for you rather than the other way around. The grind is real and unrelenting! If it matters to you, there's a lot of things in my studio right now that are a direct result of reviews and builds I saw you do. Thanks Caleb!
Jesus the similarites of so many different types of channels is almost scary. Im gunna need to borrow some of your rules. Good to know we're all going through something very similar.
"Work serves the family" is definitely the most valuable message I took from this, and one that I'm going to make a mantra for myself moving forward. Congrats on the channel growth (been watching for a while now), enjoy the new direction and good luck for the future 👏🏻
Sounds like we've all been feeling this for quite some time, glad to see many of us taking steps back to reprioritize. You nailed it with all your points. Last point was the biggest, it's so easy to let our work become our master and feeling enslaved rather than the other way around. Thanks for all the value you've added to the community, we all love and support you in doing what you feel is best for you and your family. Let's connect some time, I think it would be therapeutic for us both to chat :)
Thank you Parker. So glad you are pursuing what is best for your family! We all appreciate the work you put into teaching but I'm glad you've called it and are taking time to find the next thing. Always down to chat man. Godspeed in 2024!
Excellent video, Caleb. I’m on year 13 now and we just decided to cut back on the video release schedule and grow in other areas of the business where we can help even more people more deeply. Great rules as well. I’m constantly conflicted over whether to scale or not scale so that one will continue to be on my mind. I’ve been trying to better take advantage of the freedoms of being a full time TH-camr, like mid-day movies with my wife and/or kids, family travel and more downtime to just not work. Here’s to an amazing 2024 for you, brother. All the best. - Nils
More power to you, Caleb. I’ve been feeling some of this myself and have been making big changes behind the scenes too. Trying to find a healthier work life balance. The TH-cam rat race really distorts reality and messes with your mental health. Love the accountability idea/sharing you’re doing here.
Thank you Matt! Yes, distorted is a great way to put it. Also thank you for all of the solar panel help over the years! Seen a lot of your stuff and appreciate you!
@@dslrvideoshooter You just made my day, Caleb. Thanks so much. I've always loved your videos. Can't wait to see what you make out of this new chapter in your career. Really looking forward to it and hope you find the joy again.
This video felt like a therapy session for me in the most positive way. Thank you so much for taking the time to record this Caleb and for putting it out there for us to watch. Really appreciate you!
Love this man, thanks for sharing. I can relate. Our industry, and the genres within are cyclical. The waves come and go. If you can survive the drought, and enjoy your creative process while you're doing it - you'll catch the next wave again. Pace yourself, do what you love, and you'll love what you do. Thanks for sharing!
I love it when fellow creators post videos like this, thanks for keeping it real Caleb. You owe nobody an explanation, yet taking the time to make something like this is always appreciated, especially by others "in the arena." As someone (me) who is probably the worst TH-camr out there (in regards to playing the game and following best practices), I wholeheartedly endorse being a maker over being a "youtuber." Of course as you touched on it's just a challenge when being a person who uploads also impacts your bottom line. Rule #4 is a personal favourite. I've been fighting that tendency for years. I love the book from Paul Jarvis titled "company of one" it really solidifies my feelings on this. And yes, rule #10 is also so important. What's the point of working so hard to build something if it doesn't serve you? I would add an additional rule 11 which you probably already follow, but for me it is so important to have areas outside of "video related goals" to be progressing in and to use as an outlet. It's a habit of mine to make every interest somehow related to the youtube channel, but it feels so good to make something that has nothing to do with video creation. I've been trying to sew more, I've really enjoyed learning how to lift, and also even though I've made running videos in the past, I really try to keep my running and biking time as me only time. Appreciate you Caleb! Again you don't owe an explanation to anyone, but opening up the curtain like this is always rad, even though it brings in tons of unsolicited feedback from people who don't quite get the spirit of a video like this or haven't tried to walk the path themselves.
Levi! Thank you for the encouragement and your thoughts on this as well. I'm not bummed I didn't exhort everyone to make their own set of "rules" and share them! Your rule 11 is great. Years back I almost started another channel to ruin a hobby but time didn't allow me to. So glad that didn't work out and I'm now very protective of non-work hobbies and activities. Off to go grab a copy of that book! Thank you for sharing bro and I hope you and the family are well!
Im glad you're not quitting! But definitely don't take youtube or any other job too seriously. Great advice I heard once is to not "work hard but work joyfully". Even if that means less views or money... who cares if you're having fun! This will definitely have a positive impact on your and your family's well being. All the best!
Congrats and thank you for all the incredible value you have provided us for … 14 years !! Including this extremely valuable video. I’ve always been impressed not only by the quality of the videos themselves but also the sheer amount of time you have actually put as a maker researching and making the tools shown or used in your videos ! Thanks again so much for all your insight and for taking care of our time, your videos serve us, you’re not making us serve your videos. Happy you are not quitting. Good luck for whatever is next , life is short, prioritize what you are most passionate about , continue building, will always be a pleasure to watch !
Hi Darious!!!! U and Caleb both helped me so much as becoming a filmmaker. Appreciate all the work y’all have done… I hope the breaks serve you all well. God bless:) would love to meet you all one day
Caleb: you are hands-down one of the best teachers I have encountered, period. The clear and succinct way you take students from one idea to another is genuinely brilliant, and makes it effortless for us to follow along. With so many voices out there, yours has been one I consistently look to and rely upon. I also have deep respect for your willingness to be vulnerable and share your experiences about the realities of being a TH-cam creator, and I eagerly look forward to your future contributions (in whatever form they may take).
Hi Caleb. I loved this video. I'm not sure I ever commented here on your channel but I just want to thank you for doing this - all. For sharing so much over the years with such quality (I think I have followed you since 2015) and for now, sharing your thoughts on this important matter. I do relate to many aspects and points you've made. I totally get your feeling of wanting to "be happy again making and sharing" and I wish I could go back to that feeling I once had too. The "problem" is that the platform is not the same anymore (it's normal; everything evolves, and everyone should have the same opportunities to get inside here), and there's way too much noise for us to get through again. I have no doubts you can achieve that happy limbo again, but I'm not sure I can. I just think that knowing what we know can make it so freaking hard or really prevent me from getting there ever again. Anyway, congratulations on getting where you are mentally and hopefully you can feel free again. Looking forward to seeing new creations that do not chase fads or algorithms. :)
Dude, you've given people SO MUCH. We are just very grateful for everything you've done for the filmmaking community. ❤ You rock, and you should do whatever makes you happy! Therapy can be really beneficial, and it's awesome you are talking about it
Thanks for keeping it real Caleb. You taught me how to use my Panasonic G7 back in the day which helped my own channel quality improve. You've inspired so many people to work to improve their craft which is something I will always be grateful for! See you when we see you.
All great points I think many TH-cam creators have had to work through or deal with if you’ve been doing this with any success for over 10 years. As TH-cam is an ever moving target it certainly can be difficult and I think many of us have had similar thoughts as well. Thanks for sharing.
Man it's really great to see more of these videos popping up on my feed lately. As someone who's relatively new to this space (3 years in) it's reassuring to see that my worries are the same as those who have ten times the channel size and who have been doing this for much longer than I have! It's something which Paddy Galloway mentioned, about making YOU the through-line for your channel. That makes you free to do anything you want, because you'll attract people who are interested in you, and don't just come for the gear etc... It'll be a shame to not see your videos on my feed as often, but I'm super excited to see what else you have to share! Happiness is the most important thing, so stick with what makes you happy :)
Man I appreciate your transparency. It’s weird I’ve just decided to go full time on this channel on the same week so many people I follow have decided to step back or change things up. It’s helpful hearing this from someone I see as successful. It’s a good reminder to manage mental health, family and expectations in the midst of trying your best. Looking forward to seeing what this year looks like for you and the channel.
Your timing is uncanny… I just stopped doing my latest podcast because I wanted to focus on just making art. I feel your pain. I remember when you first started. Proud of you, Caleb, of how you handled this. I’ll buy the book when it comes out. 🤠
@@benmcnights1763 Lol that was a long time ago! 16x9 to Digital Convergence to Artful Camera. I never was much good at branding. Those were wild west days!
I can't tell you how close your experience is to my own. It's basically 1 to 1 and I heard myself with every word. While my intention is to scale I saw myself losing interest because of "wave riding" and completely lost interest. I have since returned back to a more niche category and the result is less views BUT its been way more easy to make the content. And I enjoy it. I still have kinks to work out but I feel far more at ease. So I applaud you Caleb and wish nothing but the best for you and your family.
You’re a legend for putting this out here for us. I’m deeply grateful for everything you’ve expressed in it. May the blessings shower you and your family.
You're not alone mate... Just before Christmas I sat there in front of the camera and just didn't want to press record. The panic attacks and mental stress is something I have struggled with over the last four years making videos and the rollercoaster of my emotional state being so closely tied to the performance of a video week to week is super unhealthy. I have a full time job so I don't know why I get so affected by it. Thank you for sharing this with us fellow creators Caleb, I wish you all the best and will continue to follow you as long as you make videos. Your analagy of effort in and effort out is something I talk about all the time and why being a TH-camr is frustrating. I've recorded a video in 3 hours and it's performed better than a video that took me two weeks to make.
Thanks boss. I really appreciate that and man, that feeling is awful. Godspeed in 2024 and here's to hopefully finding some peace in resetting the mindset!
I've been watching you for years and I relate with you so much. TH-cam wires your brain differently in a negative way. The stresses that come are huge. Thanks for making the video bro.
As an editor for several channels and sort of a couple of my own, I’ve definitely seen the passion come and go. I appreciate the time and effort you’ve put in to teaching others over the years! You’ve helped me, personally, so much. I’ll be a lifelong supporter of Caleb Pike, more videos or not. I’m a big fan of those who choose to make content they want, and not what TH-cam wants. Love the rules!
Hey as an editor myself -I would love to know any advice on how you end up as an editor of several channels-I could use some more work. My corporate clients are cutting budgets again. Would've to chat with ya -thanks
@@mattstoltz2479 begging and crying a lot 😂 Actually it was all organic - one channel that I followed in a particular niche posted that they needed an editor and I got that gig. That led to exposure to others in the niche who work closely with the original channel. Then a larger channel they are associated with needed an editor. Another channel that I met working for these channels also made me an offer. I reached out to another larger channel in a different niche and was hired just based on my 60 second introduction video. I’m sure there’s various ways to go about it, but I was only interested in niches that I was familiar with and felt I knew the channels well enough to blend my style in easily. I also really like the people involved. For me, it was about building relationships, trust, and always delivering.
Rule number 6 is very relatable. I have a self-imposed rule for Sunday uploads but I’m coming up on the 10-year anniversary of that decision and I’m questioning how much longer I’ll have this schedule
Hi Caleb, I just wanted to say you were like a mentor and teacher I always enjoyed coming back to. You taught me loads of knowledge over the years, which helped me build my own filmmaking career and I am forever grateful for that.
Brother, I commend you so much for making this video. I made a similar video on my channel called the future of this channel about a year ago, and said many of the same things you are saying here. Having been on TH-cam now for eight years, everything you said resonated with me. It gets tiring fighting with the TH-cam algorithm. The longer you’re on the platform sometimes the harder it is to come up with creative video ideas as well that you haven’t done in the past. Thank you for the content.
Thanks for everything you taught me. I agree with you 100%. I have been doing this for 6 years now. 1 year full time and I’m already feeling the same things. It’s nice to get some great advice from you. Thanks so much!!!!
Followed you from the start, the good ol’ days when DSLRs were evolving into video machines! You and the legendary Dave Dugdale were like extended family 😂 Like many, I always appreciated your technical knowledge and most of all authenticity on camera - clearly things that never dipped. Excited to see what you do next and good luck with the next chapter ❤
This should resonate with anyone who has been on the tube long term with any form of success. I understand this all too well. Kudos on making the tough choice that honors you rather than the race. Stay well!
Thank you Caleb for sharing this with us. I’m only 8 years in but THIS video matches all my feelings and struggles that I’m experiencing over the past few years. It feels really good to know that I’m not alone with this. Thank you! Keep on Making what you love!
Caleb, I learned a lot from your channel over the years and I will forever be grateful you've provided me for my own Channel - I completely understand the draining burnout and stress of doing everything yourself for creating TH-cam videos, whilst maintaining another full time job - so power to you! I wish you nothing but the best of luck in your future endeavours.
Thank you Caleb for this video. I wish you success in your journey to find a way to make this enjoyable again. You have been a part of my video making journey so I thank you for all the work you've done. I more or less have set up my youtube channel following your 10 rules, without expressing them so clearly. It mostly is nice, although there are still tings to work on :) /Mathias
100% identify with all of this. Some to a scary degree of similarity. Would love to connect if you are ever interested Caleb. Good on you - Sounds like hands down this is the best decision you can be making for yourself and for your family!
Yep. I'm in the same place (though much earlier on in the journey + much smaller than you). After October 7th (I'm in Israel), I realized that life is too damn short to be stressed about putting videos out all the time. Most of my conclusions are the same as yours... chill out, have fun, videos come out when they come out.
Bro! This is really powerful. Thank you for being vulnerable and sharing your story... it's so empowering for so many including myself. Keep on, my man!!
Just wanted to say thx for all your tips and tricks, custom rigs were my fav, copied everything you did and it always worked for me thx to you again, and wherever you decide to do I’ll personally be here for whatever support 🙏🏻
This video was a blessing in disguise😅 I can relate in every way you explained it. This video popped up on my feed, I clicked on it and it was everything I needed to hear. Thank you for this. 🙏🏾✨
This is refreshing. I don't have a large channel and my content is all over the place, but I find myself constantly obsessing over the numbers. It shouldn't matter. Gotta be stress free and just let whatever happens, happens.
Thanks for being so truthful. I've watched your videos for over Ten years now. I totally understand what you talking about and as you can see, It has been years since I've posted anything on TH-cam. Watching this video has made me want to post. Thanks again for being in our life.
Thank you for posting this Caleb! Before I was a TH-camr, I was working in another industry, and I was kind of burned out. It got that way because I prioritised success and results over enjoyment of my work. When I started my Yotubue channel, I decided that from now on I am going to put happiness and enjoyment as my number one priority, whatever I do. And I ended up in similar principles as your 10 commandments. It has worked for me, and after 7 years I still enjoy every minute of making TH-cam videos! Life is way too short not to enjoy what you are doing!
I wouldn't have been able to create my channel if it hadn't been for you. I love what you offer on your channel and your course on the BMPCC4K is what got me on my own feet. I love the message in this video and appreciate the vulnerability. Thanks so much for what you do, and it doesn't have to be forever. Life is full of chapters they say.
One of my favorite tech/camera creators. I love how you explain things and make the process for the viewer as simple clean and minimal as possible. Just want to say thank you for existing as you do
Thank you for that! When I started my Channel, six months ago, I strictly followed this thought! For me, TH-cam is a means, not an end! It's a resource platform, where I promote my business and that of my clients. I've never been worried about statistics! All the best and... it was inspiring and grounded the way I've always approached this platform.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. ACT emphasizes clarifying values and moving towards your values even when experiencing distress/fear/difficult emotions that can lead to avoidance @@MichaelCTruth
Yep, to all of this. I think the thing that got me really worked up is the fact that like your channel, and just about all of the other creators you mentioned, the providing of FREE information was at the core and heart of what I fell in love with when I started TH-cam. It served two purposes, getting ears for my music and more importantly, allowed me to share information that led to my improvement as a music producer and musician that has ultimately led to a lot of therapy and happiness in my life. When you pour yourself into that idea and are bombarded with algorithms, varying upload frequency suggestions, thumbnails, shorts, rule changes, and worst of all, senseless personal criticism, attacks at times, rude interactions, negativity, ungrateful transactions and unrealistic expectations people think they have of my privacy, time and what they think they should be getting from me. Getting dehumanized on this platform is probably what all of these creators are running from. We all sort of had a hand in letting it happen but the google machine is very influential. I stopped really doing anything for a long while and have recently started back up only producing what I want to do for my own selfish reasons os sharing my creativity (music) and wanting to share helpful tips and techniques. I don’t give any more F’s about anything other then that. I’ve really appreciated what you’ve provided us over the years. Thanks for the sacrifice. Wishing you the best Caleb.
With a great deal of empathy I listened to this video. 30 years ago I founded a company based on expertise acquired working for other companies. At a certain point in my career and seeing a specific need, the idea of consulting company was born into a niche that had never existed before. Getting to my point, 15 years into this company (I was in pretty much the same place you seem to be) the book “The E-Myth Revisited: Why Most Small Businesses Don't Work and What to Do About It” by Michael E. Gerber offered a lot of help. Also, I wanted to say thank you for work you have already done.
Boy have I been feeling some of these some things lately and I don't have any where near the time on the platform as you do. There is just too much trying to do things "the right way" and it takes the fun out of it. I know what videos I want to make, but am always hesitant because it may not be what my viewers want. If you turn your 10 rules into a poster, I would certainly buy one.
This was more valuable than words can express. I’m still pretty new at the TH-cam thing and didn’t even realize I was already on these toxic paths. I appreciate you.
Listening to this video was like hearing myself speak. You nailed it. It’s almost like doing TH-cam professionally is the perfect formula for anxiety. Until recently I thought maybe it’s just me. I love when people say why don’t you get a real job. I’m like “Dude, I do fifteen jobs. One would be easy.” I’ve been doing TH-cam full time for seven years on multiple channels and have found your channel and guides extremely helpful since I started. Thanks for this video and all the help over the years. I wish you much more success!
Thank you for sharing, Caleb. I think this struck home for not just myself but a lot of creators, tying our mental health to the success of our videos/channels. I've been watching and learning from your videos for years now and I think no matter how you pivot, we're all in support of you!
Loved this video Caleb! As someone who's on the "come up" and had recent videos do well, I already feel the pressure of having to ride that wave and give my audience what they want. Definitely going to take your advice
I really liked your first album 'Play', and really loved the new video by Steve Cuts to the track 'Why Does My Heart Feel So Bad'. Thanks for the music & hope you can rebuild.
Great tips! We’re not professional TH-camrs in any capacity but I feel like we’ve passed through some of these tribulations for something that doesn’t even support us. So we’ve definitely descaled and try to do more of what we do like. For us that meant scaling back on produced content and going more for streams and interacting with people which brings us lots of joy.
“Don’t fret over the schedule.” This is a rule I’ve adopted lately and it’s done so much for my mental well-being. I’m not a large creator by any means, but I do have a small following and I want to give them regular content. However, I sometimes don’t have the bandwidth to produce videos on a weekly or biweekly basis, so I finish them when I can and keep it pushing. No need to stress about it. Thanks for sharing your feelings on everything and your new rules for TH-cam. Wishing you the best for the future. 🙏🏾🙌🏾
Good talk. I like to think that my channel has lived by most of these rules since the get go. I think having a full time job helps me keep the channel at an even low workload. In fact I have been scaling down for several years as other hobbies take over any spare time. The one rule I did not relate to was the thumbnail one. My maximum effort has been to take a picture and ad graphics. 99/100 thumbnails are just a frame from the actual video and selected while the video is finalizing after upload 😀 Hope too se future content that makes you nothing but happy 👍
Hey man, I feel you! When we started Vanlife Sagas on TH-cam in 2020, it was for fun, sharing our experiences and knowledge. After a while, you realize you're just wired to the machine that TH-cam is. They have engineers, business people, psychologists, making sure creators "have a platform to express themselves", but also making sure "we stick to the platform with as much content as possible". They have a very elaborate system of rewards including money, attention, reach, reputation, etc. It's well oiled machine. Just like you, I looked back at the last 100 videos I made, and I was questioning what the true motives were, above and beyond scoring more than a 10/10 on TH-cam Studio. Sometimes, the real physical step back is exactly what they don't want you to do, and it's exactly what you need to do, like @mattih and all the others. You're doing the right thing. 1000% sure of this. New ideas will emerge, whether they're expressed here or somewhere else. High-five (from a creator colleague).
Thanks for sharing and being vulnerable and authentic. I just came across your channel and love your work. As someone about to start my own channel from a burnout and depression, standpoint sharing my transformation, I love your insights. Absolute gold and I hope this helps me avoid burnout again doing my channel as that in itself is counter productive where I have come from. I think if you made another video focusing on how not to burnout with TH-cam as I stumbled across this behind the title. I say this as it may help others find this valuable content. Thanks again
One thing to ponder (as a non-youtuber). I've been subscribed to your channel for a few years now and have watched the majority of your backlog. Your videos have helped me hone my craft, find creative solutions, and ultimately helped me in my career, which in turns helps my family. As a word of encouragement, thanks for helping me. It's funny how well produced videos about production gear can ultimately feel personal because of how they have positivly affected my life. Thanks for that.
Thank you! I enjoy seeing you when you come up on my video feed. I am not a content creator through video, but I am a content creator. I too felt the need to find myself in the things I loved to do. And I found the things that I didn’t like to do. I spent a year off only making photographs just for me. It didn’t matter if I showed my work to others. I did show my spouse what I was doing as she supported me and my time off. I played and created, learned, and studied the things that were enjoyable to me. I am in a much better place now. In doing this, it saved me. Pursue your joy. And I’ll see you when I see you next.
Crazy I been following this channel for nearly a decade back when you were adapting Canon FD lenses and when we both had hair :). Hope everything comes out how you see fit and good luck to the future!
My dear, I live in Brazil and work with photography and video. Some of your videos already help me with some purchasing choices, others I watch because we can feel that you do it with passion. That's why, in some way, I feel close to you. And we always want the best for those close to us. Even if you only release one video a year, even if you take a vacation, I'll be happy that you're looking for what's best for you. I want to thank you and wish you and your beautiful family all the best. Always count on my support. Thank you and congratulations, always.
Thank you for sharing. Really love the content you have uploaded over the many years and wish all the health and wealth to you and your family ❤. You are inspirational .
Just wanted to say thank you. I don't watch TH-cam that much but whenever I come here and check my small handful of subscriptions, yours are the videos I always watch. Always. So please make whatever brings you joy and know that it will bring this viewer joy as well. And use the most bananas thumbnails, that won't stop me from clicking.
Well done! I’m happy and excited for you and your family. I'm glad you're putting your mental health first. The “what am I going to be thinking about on my deathbed” question is something I've been using as a priority gauge a lot over the past few years.
I honestly have appreciated your videos as someone who wanted a no frills, down-to-earth take on how to get the best out of my equipment. I felt like the Camera Foundry addition was such an amazing piece because it scratched that maker itch in a way that was different because it's both innovative and lowers the barrier to entry for a lot of people. I think we're hitting a Renaissance both on and off youtube, where we're all taking a step back from the media burnout and asking what we actually want from these platforms. As always I appreciate your approach to such a sensitive subject and hope you're successful in whatever you decide to do!
Caleb, I so thankful that you made this video. I'm a tiny channel, but dread the editing process. It causes anxiety that I can't explain to anyone. Thank you for sharing about this difficult point in your life. As strange as it sounds, I am now more motivated to continue knowing that I am not the only one working through some of these difficulties. As viewers of your channel, we are all standing right behind you. 🙂
Thanks Caleb for helping us in our filmmaker journey. Never been in the TH-cam game but I can definitely relate to what you’ve been through. Family and mental health are number one matters.
Caleb, you’ve been someone I’ve looked up to within the TH-cam video/photography community. Watched your videos for ten years now, you have to what’s right by you and your family. I’ll still look forward to seeing when I do on here for whatever videos they are. Build and build away ( Waiting on the fourth release Cineback for Fx3 ). Take your time, most importantly, we want you to for you. Thank you for everything.
Mr. Pike, you are a legend for sharing your veteran's 10 rules. I really resonated with your story of perfectionism even though I haven't made many videos... I honestly do see "failure as a sin" and it was affirming to hear otherwise from a veteran in the field so clearly. Thank you.
I can’t even put to words how much I learned from you sir! You’ve been a go-to for me in enriching my knowledge in this industry we work in. I’m a college drop out who heavily relied on TH-cam as my informal university 😅. And you are my favorite professor of some sort. Huge respect on the decision, specially that you’re doing this for your family. Will continually support, watch and learn throughout these coming changes! Kudos for such a great work, may the Lord continue to bless you! Shalom!
I Love your honesty and transparency! My channel is nowhere as big as yours, but your message resonates with me. I also had exhaustion, and had to see a therapist to get straight - also I have to make guidelines for myself for what I will & wont do.
I think the TH-camr in "I am only a good person when I'm a good TH-camr" can be exchanged by almost anything for many people. Not basing what you are worth to yourself on your performance or what other people think of you goes against what has been taught in modern (and maybe older) society and is a very difficult thing to do. I am sure many of us struggle with that, so thank you for sharing your thoughts with us! What a great set of rules for a more fulfilling workplace and better mental health. Btw I enjoyed your build videos and other creations the most from all of your videos! Your many complete video equipment on a desk, c stand etc. still inspire me.
dude, i love your approach to all this. i have a ton of respect for your path moving forward. i'm no big youtuber but have certainly been looking at social media in general so differently and come to a similar result.
Yo! I applaud you for putting family first! and yes to MAKING more things. I think that's one of the biggest draws of your channel is when you make something creative that YOU like... and yeah the lighting is great, and audio is clean, and thumbnail is top notch....I often wonder how much of this is all I our heads, and how much of it is just the good will we've already built up over the years. Its hard to trust that people just want to tune in to see your face and see what's going on from time to time. Personally, with my own struggles, I think I would output more and second guess myself less if I subscribed to that notion, but it's a tough one. Good on you for getting this one off the chest. Can't wait to see what you cook up now.
When I started watching this video I remember the time you mentioned that you don't watch TH-cam to avoid any contamination on your own work.
After being out of the professional video space for over 20 years, I just completed my first documentary. You and Calab's videos were a Godsend when I was navigating my way back into the professional video world three years ago. Grant Petty owes you both some commission on the Blackmagic camera and other BM products I purchased. You both do great work on TH-cam and I look forward to whatever you guys do moving forward. Thank you both!
Thanks man! It's a weird job and I think these kinds of feelings and the tortured artist stuff is inevitable. Hits each of us differently and I think we need to be aware of each of our own tendencies and temptations to fall into our own traps. For example I have no problems with hate/mean comments. Say whatever you want down here I really don't care. But then my chest gets tight when it is time to work on the next video 🤷♂
I’ve been missing your videos too, BTW & hope you aren’t leaving TH-cam any time soon. 👍
Amazing video, you’ve put into words a lot of what I’ve been feeling as well, and I’ve only been doing this for 7 years 😂 Looking forward to seeing how things evolve for you + let’s hang if you’re ever in London ❤
TH-cam is a very unique career for sure.
Ali!!! Super cool to see you in the comments. Your content has been a huge help over the years. Next time my wife and I are over there we will for sure hit you up! Spent some time in England this summer and loved it! Now to go buy your new book...
@@GxAce responding to Ali's comment on a DSLR Shooter's video... Which I came to watch for inspiration on a compact video rig based on archaic og Eos M... This must be a sign! :D
Join me in a year+ time off haha 😊 I honestly feel so good about it. Glad you are changing things up.
It is always good to have time off, I hope you are basking in the freedom🤙
Don’t go Matt! I hope Peter is not feeling the same? Oh man! 😮💨😔 hey you gotta do what you gotta do. I wont think selfishly here. 🙏 learnt so much from all you guys! Thanks for everything!
Bro don't tempt me ha! I'm so so happy for you and felt stress melt away watching your videos on the topic. Godspeed man!
It will be hard to take a year off. TH-cam changed there policy. If you dont poat for 6 months you will be demonized. I doubt people want to lose that.
For real join them. Get some space from traps you make if you can afford it. It's not a real trap if you can get out.
This is the 2nd video I've watched today that has the same ideas, and feels like someone saying outloud, the stuff that I've had in my head for a couple of years. Thanks for articulating this. I hope these changes are good for you, personally and for the business 👍🏼 Good on you, keep it up! -Bob
And as far as accountability.. I'm down. We all need to keep each other on track for life, not work 👍🏼
Thank you so much bob! Been eating your content up since before you quit your day job to go full-time with the channel. Wish we were closer so I could swing by to chat and help with the car!
@@Iliketomakestuff I love this. We will happily dive into this accountability huddle. =)
This year I'm seeing many TH-camrs stepping away from content creation for a break. Appreciate all the knowledge you have shared so far. Did learn many things from you.
Just in time to let AI take over 😅
@@mattstone8878 true.
i don't understand why?
because it ain't paying like it used to.
@@waynewalkerorgI’m new so I’m not familiar with
Huge fan of yours and really happy to hear you're making a shift like this to make the job work for you rather than the other way around. The grind is real and unrelenting! If it matters to you, there's a lot of things in my studio right now that are a direct result of reviews and builds I saw you do. Thanks Caleb!
Love to see this Greg!
Thanks!
What! So unnecessary! Thank you for the encouragement!
Jesus the similarites of so many different types of channels is almost scary. Im gunna need to borrow some of your rules. Good to know we're all going through something very similar.
Stages of life and career. So many “disruptive” moments in technology and life make the need for relevant reinvention a necessity.
its also all older creators.
"Work serves the family" is definitely the most valuable message I took from this, and one that I'm going to make a mantra for myself moving forward. Congrats on the channel growth (been watching for a while now), enjoy the new direction and good luck for the future 👏🏻
Sounds like we've all been feeling this for quite some time, glad to see many of us taking steps back to reprioritize. You nailed it with all your points. Last point was the biggest, it's so easy to let our work become our master and feeling enslaved rather than the other way around. Thanks for all the value you've added to the community, we all love and support you in doing what you feel is best for you and your family. Let's connect some time, I think it would be therapeutic for us both to chat :)
Thank you Parker. So glad you are pursuing what is best for your family! We all appreciate the work you put into teaching but I'm glad you've called it and are taking time to find the next thing. Always down to chat man. Godspeed in 2024!
Excellent video, Caleb. I’m on year 13 now and we just decided to cut back on the video release schedule and grow in other areas of the business where we can help even more people more deeply. Great rules as well.
I’m constantly conflicted over whether to scale or not scale so that one will continue to be on my mind.
I’ve been trying to better take advantage of the freedoms of being a full time TH-camr, like mid-day movies with my wife and/or kids, family travel and more downtime to just not work. Here’s to an amazing 2024 for you, brother. All the best. - Nils
More power to you, Caleb. I’ve been feeling some of this myself and have been making big changes behind the scenes too. Trying to find a healthier work life balance. The TH-cam rat race really distorts reality and messes with your mental health. Love the accountability idea/sharing you’re doing here.
Thank you Matt! Yes, distorted is a great way to put it. Also thank you for all of the solar panel help over the years! Seen a lot of your stuff and appreciate you!
@@dslrvideoshooter You just made my day, Caleb. Thanks so much. I've always loved your videos. Can't wait to see what you make out of this new chapter in your career. Really looking forward to it and hope you find the joy again.
Thank you for sharing 🙏. This resonates with me and - from reading the comments - with many other TH-cam creators
This video felt like a therapy session for me in the most positive way. Thank you so much for taking the time to record this Caleb and for putting it out there for us to watch. Really appreciate you!
Glad it could help in anyway Edward!
Love this man, thanks for sharing. I can relate. Our industry, and the genres within are cyclical. The waves come and go. If you can survive the drought, and enjoy your creative process while you're doing it - you'll catch the next wave again. Pace yourself, do what you love, and you'll love what you do. Thanks for sharing!
I love it when fellow creators post videos like this, thanks for keeping it real Caleb. You owe nobody an explanation, yet taking the time to make something like this is always appreciated, especially by others "in the arena." As someone (me) who is probably the worst TH-camr out there (in regards to playing the game and following best practices), I wholeheartedly endorse being a maker over being a "youtuber." Of course as you touched on it's just a challenge when being a person who uploads also impacts your bottom line. Rule #4 is a personal favourite. I've been fighting that tendency for years. I love the book from Paul Jarvis titled "company of one" it really solidifies my feelings on this. And yes, rule #10 is also so important. What's the point of working so hard to build something if it doesn't serve you?
I would add an additional rule 11 which you probably already follow, but for me it is so important to have areas outside of "video related goals" to be progressing in and to use as an outlet. It's a habit of mine to make every interest somehow related to the youtube channel, but it feels so good to make something that has nothing to do with video creation. I've been trying to sew more, I've really enjoyed learning how to lift, and also even though I've made running videos in the past, I really try to keep my running and biking time as me only time.
Appreciate you Caleb! Again you don't owe an explanation to anyone, but opening up the curtain like this is always rad, even though it brings in tons of unsolicited feedback from people who don't quite get the spirit of a video like this or haven't tried to walk the path themselves.
Thank you for everything. Please put yourself and your family first. Sincere best wishes.
hey Levi, when is the next Make Stuff Club video coming out?
I really enjoy those as a fellow adhd creator 😍
Hey Levi, sounds like you need to get a BMX! Cheers man, I have just discovered you (from this comment) and am loving your igloo build 🤙
Levi! Thank you for the encouragement and your thoughts on this as well. I'm not bummed I didn't exhort everyone to make their own set of "rules" and share them! Your rule 11 is great. Years back I almost started another channel to ruin a hobby but time didn't allow me to. So glad that didn't work out and I'm now very protective of non-work hobbies and activities. Off to go grab a copy of that book! Thank you for sharing bro and I hope you and the family are well!
Im glad you're not quitting! But definitely don't take youtube or any other job too seriously. Great advice I heard once is to not "work hard but work joyfully". Even if that means less views or money... who cares if you're having fun! This will definitely have a positive impact on your and your family's well being. All the best!
Congrats and thank you for all the incredible value you have provided us for … 14 years !! Including this extremely valuable video. I’ve always been impressed not only by the quality of the videos themselves but also the sheer amount of time you have actually put as a maker researching and making the tools shown or used in your videos ! Thanks again so much for all your insight and for taking care of our time, your videos serve us, you’re not making us serve your videos. Happy you are not quitting. Good luck for whatever is next , life is short, prioritize what you are most passionate about , continue building, will always be a pleasure to watch !
Thanks boss! I could say the exact same thing to you! You've videos are next level and I love your unique content. Keep up the fantastic work.
I'm so glad to see this. I Felt the same! You deserve a workflow that serves you Bruh - Bruh
Thanks Bro!!! ❤
Hi Darious!!!! U and Caleb both helped me so much as becoming a filmmaker. Appreciate all the work y’all have done… I hope the breaks serve you all well. God bless:) would love to meet you all one day
Caleb: you are hands-down one of the best teachers I have encountered, period. The clear and succinct way you take students from one idea to another is genuinely brilliant, and makes it effortless for us to follow along. With so many voices out there, yours has been one I consistently look to and rely upon. I also have deep respect for your willingness to be vulnerable and share your experiences about the realities of being a TH-cam creator, and I eagerly look forward to your future contributions (in whatever form they may take).
Hi Caleb. I loved this video. I'm not sure I ever commented here on your channel but I just want to thank you for doing this - all. For sharing so much over the years with such quality (I think I have followed you since 2015) and for now, sharing your thoughts on this important matter. I do relate to many aspects and points you've made. I totally get your feeling of wanting to "be happy again making and sharing" and I wish I could go back to that feeling I once had too. The "problem" is that the platform is not the same anymore (it's normal; everything evolves, and everyone should have the same opportunities to get inside here), and there's way too much noise for us to get through again. I have no doubts you can achieve that happy limbo again, but I'm not sure I can. I just think that knowing what we know can make it so freaking hard or really prevent me from getting there ever again.
Anyway, congratulations on getting where you are mentally and hopefully you can feel free again. Looking forward to seeing new creations that do not chase fads or algorithms. :)
We're sending love your way, Caleb! You're a really unique creator in this space - you should do whatever it takes to keep it that way 🤍
Thank you!!!
Dude, you've given people SO MUCH. We are just very grateful for everything you've done for the filmmaking community. ❤ You rock, and you should do whatever makes you happy! Therapy can be really beneficial, and it's awesome you are talking about it
Thanks for keeping it real Caleb. You taught me how to use my Panasonic G7 back in the day which helped my own channel quality improve. You've inspired so many people to work to improve their craft which is something I will always be grateful for! See you when we see you.
All great points I think many TH-cam creators have had to work through or deal with if you’ve been doing this with any success for over 10 years. As TH-cam is an ever moving target it certainly can be difficult and I think many of us have had similar thoughts as well. Thanks for sharing.
Joy - The metric we forget to measure.
I appreciate all of the things you've made through this channel, and for sharing this video.
Be happy Caleb. ✌🏽
Finally a change from DSLR Video Shooter to Mirrorless Video Shooter!
Man it's really great to see more of these videos popping up on my feed lately. As someone who's relatively new to this space (3 years in) it's reassuring to see that my worries are the same as those who have ten times the channel size and who have been doing this for much longer than I have!
It's something which Paddy Galloway mentioned, about making YOU the through-line for your channel. That makes you free to do anything you want, because you'll attract people who are interested in you, and don't just come for the gear etc...
It'll be a shame to not see your videos on my feed as often, but I'm super excited to see what else you have to share! Happiness is the most important thing, so stick with what makes you happy :)
Man I appreciate your transparency. It’s weird I’ve just decided to go full time on this channel on the same week so many people I follow have decided to step back or change things up.
It’s helpful hearing this from someone I see as successful. It’s a good reminder to manage mental health, family and expectations in the midst of trying your best. Looking forward to seeing what this year looks like for you and the channel.
I've followed you for 10 years and this is my favorite video out of all the videos you made. Hats off to you, Caleb! Family 1st!
Your timing is uncanny… I just stopped doing my latest podcast because I wanted to focus on just making art. I feel your pain. I remember when you first started. Proud of you, Caleb, of how you handled this. I’ll buy the book when it comes out. 🤠
Shoutout 16x9 Convergence podcast
@@benmcnights1763 Lol that was a long time ago! 16x9 to Digital Convergence to Artful Camera. I never was much good at branding. Those were wild west days!
Carl! Thank you for the kind words and I hope you are well friend.
I can't tell you how close your experience is to my own. It's basically 1 to 1 and I heard myself with every word. While my intention is to scale I saw myself losing interest because of "wave riding" and completely lost interest. I have since returned back to a more niche category and the result is less views BUT its been way more easy to make the content. And I enjoy it. I still have kinks to work out but I feel far more at ease. So I applaud you Caleb and wish nothing but the best for you and your family.
You’re a legend for putting this out here for us. I’m deeply grateful for everything you’ve expressed in it.
May the blessings shower you and your family.
I have never felt more related to with my TH-cam. Coming up on 4 years in I’m feeling this heavy. Thank you sir for this
You're not alone mate... Just before Christmas I sat there in front of the camera and just didn't want to press record. The panic attacks and mental stress is something I have struggled with over the last four years making videos and the rollercoaster of my emotional state being so closely tied to the performance of a video week to week is super unhealthy. I have a full time job so I don't know why I get so affected by it. Thank you for sharing this with us fellow creators Caleb, I wish you all the best and will continue to follow you as long as you make videos. Your analagy of effort in and effort out is something I talk about all the time and why being a TH-camr is frustrating. I've recorded a video in 3 hours and it's performed better than a video that took me two weeks to make.
Thanks boss. I really appreciate that and man, that feeling is awful. Godspeed in 2024 and here's to hopefully finding some peace in resetting the mindset!
Thanks Caleb - your video was more helpful than you could possibly know - I've taken a lot of what you've said on board.@@dslrvideoshooter
I've been watching you for years and I relate with you so much. TH-cam wires your brain differently in a negative way. The stresses that come are huge. Thanks for making the video bro.
As an editor for several channels and sort of a couple of my own, I’ve definitely seen the passion come and go. I appreciate the time and effort you’ve put in to teaching others over the years! You’ve helped me, personally, so much. I’ll be a lifelong supporter of Caleb Pike, more videos or not. I’m a big fan of those who choose to make content they want, and not what TH-cam wants. Love the rules!
Hey as an editor myself -I would love to know any advice on how you end up as an editor of several channels-I could use some more work. My corporate clients are cutting budgets again. Would've to chat with ya -thanks
@@mattstoltz2479 begging and crying a lot 😂 Actually it was all organic - one channel that I followed in a particular niche posted that they needed an editor and I got that gig. That led to exposure to others in the niche who work closely with the original channel. Then a larger channel they are associated with needed an editor. Another channel that I met working for these channels also made me an offer. I reached out to another larger channel in a different niche and was hired just based on my 60 second introduction video.
I’m sure there’s various ways to go about it, but I was only interested in niches that I was familiar with and felt I knew the channels well enough to blend my style in easily. I also really like the people involved. For me, it was about building relationships, trust, and always delivering.
Rule number 6 is very relatable. I have a self-imposed rule for Sunday uploads but I’m coming up on the 10-year anniversary of that decision and I’m questioning how much longer I’ll have this schedule
I appreciate you Caleb for opening up. All the power to you for making this decision! Make for you and not for the algorithm.
thank you so much for this video Caleb. at a smaller scale i can totally relate with most. wishing you and your family all the best ❤
Hi Caleb, I just wanted to say you were like a mentor and teacher I always enjoyed coming back to. You taught me loads of knowledge over the years, which helped me build my own filmmaking career and I am forever grateful for that.
Thanks so much for sharing all your experience and insight, Caleb. As a "New" TH-camr, this was all good information.
Brother, I commend you so much for making this video. I made a similar video on my channel called the future of this channel about a year ago, and said many of the same things you are saying here. Having been on TH-cam now for eight years, everything you said resonated with me. It gets tiring fighting with the TH-cam algorithm. The longer you’re on the platform sometimes the harder it is to come up with creative video ideas as well that you haven’t done in the past. Thank you for the content.
Thanks for everything you taught me. I agree with you 100%. I have been doing this for 6 years now. 1 year full time and I’m already feeling the same things. It’s nice to get some great advice from you. Thanks so much!!!!
Followed you from the start, the good ol’ days when DSLRs were evolving into video machines! You and the legendary Dave Dugdale were like extended family 😂 Like many, I always appreciated your technical knowledge and most of all authenticity on camera - clearly things that never dipped. Excited to see what you do next and good luck with the next chapter ❤
The dynamic duo of Caleb & Dave is still one of the best.
I learned so much from Dave!
Don’t forget DSLR Nerd!
Very relatable. Thanks Caleb, I found this super meaningful. TH-cam is the best worst job ever, it’s amazing the toll it takes on creators.
This should resonate with anyone who has been on the tube long term with any form of success. I understand this all too well. Kudos on making the tough choice that honors you rather than the race. Stay well!
Thank you Caleb for sharing this with us. I’m only 8 years in but THIS video matches all my feelings and struggles that I’m experiencing over the past few years. It feels really good to know that I’m not alone with this. Thank you! Keep on Making what you love!
Caleb, I learned a lot from your channel over the years and I will forever be grateful you've provided me for my own Channel - I completely understand the draining burnout and stress of doing everything yourself for creating TH-cam videos, whilst maintaining another full time job - so power to you! I wish you nothing but the best of luck in your future endeavours.
Thank you Caleb for this video. I wish you success in your journey to find a way to make this enjoyable again. You have been a part of my video making journey so I thank you for all the work you've done. I more or less have set up my youtube channel following your 10 rules, without expressing them so clearly. It mostly is nice, although there are still tings to work on :)
/Mathias
You've been one of my favorites for a long time now thank you for all your content and best of luck moving forward!
100% identify with all of this. Some to a scary degree of similarity. Would love to connect if you are ever interested Caleb. Good on you - Sounds like hands down this is the best decision you can be making for yourself and for your family!
I definitely can relate to this, thank you for sharing this precious testimony!
I am a silent follower based in Italy ❤️
Yep. I'm in the same place (though much earlier on in the journey + much smaller than you). After October 7th (I'm in Israel), I realized that life is too damn short to be stressed about putting videos out all the time. Most of my conclusions are the same as yours... chill out, have fun, videos come out when they come out.
Bro! This is really powerful. Thank you for being vulnerable and sharing your story... it's so empowering for so many including myself. Keep on, my man!!
Just wanted to say thx for all your tips and tricks, custom rigs were my fav, copied everything you did and it always worked for me thx to you again, and wherever you decide to do I’ll personally be here for whatever support 🙏🏻
This video was a blessing in disguise😅
I can relate in every way you explained it. This video popped up on my feed, I clicked on it and it was everything I needed to hear. Thank you for this. 🙏🏾✨
That's why I love this channel. You are honest, authentic and can explain it so well. thank you for the statement.👍👍👍
This is refreshing. I don't have a large channel and my content is all over the place, but I find myself constantly obsessing over the numbers. It shouldn't matter. Gotta be stress free and just let whatever happens, happens.
Thanks for being so truthful. I've watched your videos for over Ten years now. I totally understand what you talking about and as you can see, It has been years since I've posted anything on TH-cam. Watching this video has made me want to post. Thanks again for being in our life.
This is fantastic authenticity. I'm so glad you have come to these personal realizations and also shared them with your community.
Thank you for posting this Caleb! Before I was a TH-camr, I was working in another industry, and I was kind of burned out. It got that way because I prioritised success and results over enjoyment of my work. When I started my Yotubue channel, I decided that from now on I am going to put happiness and enjoyment as my number one priority, whatever I do. And I ended up in similar principles as your 10 commandments. It has worked for me, and after 7 years I still enjoy every minute of making TH-cam videos! Life is way too short not to enjoy what you are doing!
I wouldn't have been able to create my channel if it hadn't been for you. I love what you offer on your channel and your course on the BMPCC4K is what got me on my own feet. I love the message in this video and appreciate the vulnerability. Thanks so much for what you do, and it doesn't have to be forever. Life is full of chapters they say.
One of my favorite tech/camera creators. I love how you explain things and make the process for the viewer as simple clean and minimal as possible. Just want to say thank you for existing as you do
Thank you for that!
When I started my Channel, six months ago, I strictly followed this thought!
For me, TH-cam is a means, not an end!
It's a resource platform, where I promote my business and that of my clients.
I've never been worried about statistics!
All the best and... it was inspiring and grounded the way I've always approached this platform.
As a therapist and an audio engineer I doubly appreciate this video. Sounds like you had a great ACT therapist, one of my favorite modalities.
Whats an ACT therapist?
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. ACT emphasizes clarifying values and moving towards your values even when experiencing distress/fear/difficult emotions that can lead to avoidance @@MichaelCTruth
Yep, to all of this.
I think the thing that got me really worked up is the fact that like your channel, and just about all of the other creators you mentioned, the providing of FREE information was at the core and heart of what I fell in love with when I started TH-cam. It served two purposes, getting ears for my music and more importantly, allowed me to share information that led to my improvement as a music producer and musician that has ultimately led to a lot of therapy and happiness in my life.
When you pour yourself into that idea and are bombarded with algorithms, varying upload frequency suggestions, thumbnails, shorts, rule changes, and worst of all, senseless personal criticism, attacks at times, rude interactions, negativity, ungrateful transactions and unrealistic expectations people think they have of my privacy, time and what they think they should be getting from me.
Getting dehumanized on this platform is probably what all of these creators are running from. We all sort of had a hand in letting it happen but the google machine is very influential.
I stopped really doing anything for a long while and have recently started back up only producing what I want to do for my own selfish reasons os sharing my creativity (music) and wanting to share helpful tips and techniques. I don’t give any more F’s about anything other then that.
I’ve really appreciated what you’ve provided us over the years. Thanks for the sacrifice. Wishing you the best Caleb.
With a great deal of empathy I listened to this video. 30 years ago I founded a company based on expertise acquired working for other companies. At a certain point in my career and seeing a specific need, the idea of consulting company was born into a niche that had never existed before.
Getting to my point, 15 years into this company (I was in pretty much the same place you seem to be) the book “The E-Myth Revisited: Why Most Small Businesses Don't Work and What to Do About It” by Michael E. Gerber offered a lot of help.
Also, I wanted to say thank you for work you have already done.
Boy have I been feeling some of these some things lately and I don't have any where near the time on the platform as you do. There is just too much trying to do things "the right way" and it takes the fun out of it. I know what videos I want to make, but am always hesitant because it may not be what my viewers want. If you turn your 10 rules into a poster, I would certainly buy one.
This was more valuable than words can express. I’m still pretty new at the TH-cam thing and didn’t even realize I was already on these toxic paths. I appreciate you.
Listening to this video was like hearing myself speak. You nailed it. It’s almost like doing TH-cam professionally is the perfect formula for anxiety. Until recently I thought maybe it’s just me. I love when people say why don’t you get a real job. I’m like “Dude, I do fifteen jobs. One would be easy.” I’ve been doing TH-cam full time for seven years on multiple channels and have found your channel and guides extremely helpful since I started. Thanks for this video and all the help over the years. I wish you much more success!
Thank you for sharing, Caleb. I think this struck home for not just myself but a lot of creators, tying our mental health to the success of our videos/channels. I've been watching and learning from your videos for years now and I think no matter how you pivot, we're all in support of you!
Loved this video Caleb! As someone who's on the "come up" and had recent videos do well, I already feel the pressure of having to ride that wave and give my audience what they want. Definitely going to take your advice
I really liked your first album 'Play', and really loved the new video by Steve Cuts to the track 'Why Does My Heart Feel So Bad'. Thanks for the music & hope you can rebuild.
Great tips!
We’re not professional TH-camrs in any capacity but I feel like we’ve passed through some of these tribulations for something that doesn’t even support us.
So we’ve definitely descaled and try to do more of what we do like.
For us that meant scaling back on produced content and going more for streams and interacting with people which brings us lots of joy.
As a creator I really feel this. Those are some great rules and I will be adopting some of them or maybe all of them myself.
“Don’t fret over the schedule.” This is a rule I’ve adopted lately and it’s done so much for my mental well-being. I’m not a large creator by any means, but I do have a small following and I want to give them regular content. However, I sometimes don’t have the bandwidth to produce videos on a weekly or biweekly basis, so I finish them when I can and keep it pushing. No need to stress about it. Thanks for sharing your feelings on everything and your new rules for TH-cam. Wishing you the best for the future. 🙏🏾🙌🏾
Good talk. I like to think that my channel has lived by most of these rules since the get go. I think having a full time job helps me keep the channel at an even low workload. In fact I have been scaling down for several years as other hobbies take over any spare time.
The one rule I did not relate to was the thumbnail one. My maximum effort has been to take a picture and ad graphics. 99/100 thumbnails are just a frame from the actual video and selected while the video is finalizing after upload 😀
Hope too se future content that makes you nothing but happy 👍
Hey man, I feel you! When we started Vanlife Sagas on TH-cam in 2020, it was for fun, sharing our experiences and knowledge. After a while, you realize you're just wired to the machine that TH-cam is. They have engineers, business people, psychologists, making sure creators "have a platform to express themselves", but also making sure "we stick to the platform with as much content as possible". They have a very elaborate system of rewards including money, attention, reach, reputation, etc. It's well oiled machine.
Just like you, I looked back at the last 100 videos I made, and I was questioning what the true motives were, above and beyond scoring more than a 10/10 on TH-cam Studio. Sometimes, the real physical step back is exactly what they don't want you to do, and it's exactly what you need to do, like @mattih and all the others.
You're doing the right thing. 1000% sure of this. New ideas will emerge, whether they're expressed here or somewhere else.
High-five (from a creator colleague).
Thanks for sharing and being vulnerable and authentic. I just came across your channel and love your work. As someone about to start my own channel from a burnout and depression, standpoint sharing my transformation, I love your insights. Absolute gold and I hope this helps me avoid burnout again doing my channel as that in itself is counter productive where I have come from. I think if you made another video focusing on how not to burnout with TH-cam as I stumbled across this behind the title. I say this as it may help others find this valuable content. Thanks again
One thing to ponder (as a non-youtuber). I've been subscribed to your channel for a few years now and have watched the majority of your backlog. Your videos have helped me hone my craft, find creative solutions, and ultimately helped me in my career, which in turns helps my family. As a word of encouragement, thanks for helping me. It's funny how well produced videos about production gear can ultimately feel personal because of how they have positivly affected my life. Thanks for that.
Thank you! I enjoy seeing you when you come up on my video feed. I am not a content creator through video, but I am a content creator. I too felt the need to find myself in the things I loved to do. And I found the things that I didn’t like to do. I spent a year off only making photographs just for me. It didn’t matter if I showed my work to others. I did show my spouse what I was doing as she supported me and my time off. I played and created, learned, and studied the things that were enjoyable to me. I am in a much better place now. In doing this, it saved me. Pursue your joy. And I’ll see you when I see you next.
Crazy I been following this channel for nearly a decade back when you were adapting Canon FD lenses and when we both had hair :). Hope everything comes out how you see fit and good luck to the future!
Great thoughts, keep the maker making for the fun of it!
My dear, I live in Brazil and work with photography and video. Some of your videos already help me with some purchasing choices, others I watch because we can feel that you do it with passion. That's why, in some way, I feel close to you. And we always want the best for those close to us. Even if you only release one video a year, even if you take a vacation, I'll be happy that you're looking for what's best for you.
I want to thank you and wish you and your beautiful family all the best. Always count on my support. Thank you and congratulations, always.
Thank you for sharing. Really love the content you have uploaded over the many years and wish all the health and wealth to you and your family ❤. You are inspirational .
Just wanted to say thank you. I don't watch TH-cam that much but whenever I come here and check my small handful of subscriptions, yours are the videos I always watch. Always. So please make whatever brings you joy and know that it will bring this viewer joy as well. And use the most bananas thumbnails, that won't stop me from clicking.
Well done! I’m happy and excited for you and your family. I'm glad you're putting your mental health first. The “what am I going to be thinking about on my deathbed” question is something I've been using as a priority gauge a lot over the past few years.
I honestly have appreciated your videos as someone who wanted a no frills, down-to-earth take on how to get the best out of my equipment. I felt like the Camera Foundry addition was such an amazing piece because it scratched that maker itch in a way that was different because it's both innovative and lowers the barrier to entry for a lot of people. I think we're hitting a Renaissance both on and off youtube, where we're all taking a step back from the media burnout and asking what we actually want from these platforms. As always I appreciate your approach to such a sensitive subject and hope you're successful in whatever you decide to do!
Whatever you do Caleb, you're audience will be interested and continue to follow. Thank you for being candid, for being human.
Caleb, I so thankful that you made this video. I'm a tiny channel, but dread the editing process. It causes anxiety that I can't explain to anyone. Thank you for sharing about this difficult point in your life. As strange as it sounds, I am now more motivated to continue knowing that I am not the only one working through some of these difficulties. As viewers of your channel, we are all standing right behind you. 🙂
Thanks Caleb for helping us in our filmmaker journey. Never been in the TH-cam game but I can definitely relate to what you’ve been through. Family and mental health are number one matters.
Caleb, you’ve been someone I’ve looked up to within the TH-cam video/photography community. Watched your videos for ten years now, you have to what’s right by you and your family. I’ll still look forward to seeing when I do on here for whatever videos they are. Build and build away ( Waiting on the fourth release Cineback for Fx3 ). Take your time, most importantly, we want you to for you. Thank you for everything.
Thank you. I have a new note on my desk since this week. "How do I enjoy it? Just have fun"
Good luck sticking to it Caleb, have fun!
-Ben
Thank you very much Caleb. I come back to your tutorials from time to time. Your great work stays here!😊
Mr. Pike, you are a legend for sharing your veteran's 10 rules. I really resonated with your story of perfectionism even though I haven't made many videos... I honestly do see "failure as a sin" and it was affirming to hear otherwise from a veteran in the field so clearly.
Thank you.
I can’t even put to words how much I learned from you sir! You’ve been a go-to for me in enriching my knowledge in this industry we work in. I’m a college drop out who heavily relied on TH-cam as my informal university 😅. And you are my favorite professor of some sort. Huge respect on the decision, specially that you’re doing this for your family. Will continually support, watch and learn throughout these coming changes! Kudos for such a great work, may the Lord continue to bless you! Shalom!
I Love your honesty and transparency! My channel is nowhere as big as yours, but your message resonates with me. I also had exhaustion, and had to see a therapist to get straight - also I have to make guidelines for myself for what I will & wont do.
I think the TH-camr in "I am only a good person when I'm a good TH-camr" can be exchanged by almost anything for many people. Not basing what you are worth to yourself on your performance or what other people think of you goes against what has been taught in modern (and maybe older) society and is a very difficult thing to do. I am sure many of us struggle with that, so thank you for sharing your thoughts with us!
What a great set of rules for a more fulfilling workplace and better mental health.
Btw I enjoyed your build videos and other creations the most from all of your videos! Your many complete video equipment on a desk, c stand etc. still inspire me.
dude, i love your approach to all this. i have a ton of respect for your path moving forward. i'm no big youtuber but have certainly been looking at social media in general so differently and come to a similar result.