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 RUclips 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 🤷♂
About 1.5 years ago I decided to stop completely and delist about 70% of my videos. It still feels like a relief. I had a lot of fun in the beginning, but it started to feel like an obligation. My life was all about “oh that’s a good video topic”. Happy for you finding your balance, especially because you were one of my role models when I started in 2017.
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.
The most interesting facet of your channel that attracted me was the creativity and things you made and make available for purchase. So great decision. Congrats going forward. ❤
I have been learning so much from you over the years Caleb. Thanks for all the hard work you have put into this amazing channel! I admire the courage you have in talking about the challenges of stress and anxiety. I too suffer from anxiety attacks and other symptoms. All the best going forward!
Agreed with everything, I really appreciate your will to change. Your videos gave us so much through the years and I'm so grateful for all the knowledge you shared! Here's to more you and more time with your family🍻
We’ve been following you for years and glad your doing things what works for you. Family’s important money and fame comes after. Any support we’re here for you.
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 ❤
I think real success comes when we live our lives at our own terms, not to please anyone but to please ourselves mostly. I'm happy that you're in a path where you can really shine! Cheers!
I think this is not only happening with youtube creators, I think is systemic. There is a great book called The Burnout society. Talks about all the things you mentioned in this video. There are great videos that summarize the book, highly recommend it. Btw, you were one of the first channels I started following when I went deep on RUclips. Always loved your content, great quality and usefulness. Hope you follow your intuition and do what is best for you and your family!
1. You are a fantastic creator and as a video professional you have been my number 1 favourite creator out of the many many out there. 2. You are one the most impressively creative and inventive people I know of. MY FAVOURITE work of yours by far is when you are inventing your own kits and making your own unique rigs. It's beyond impressive. 3. You deserve peace, you really deserve it. So glad to hear you've put the work in therapy and are working with these 'rules'. Glad you're still around. Thank you for this video. It's inspiring to hear someone honour themselves, their family and their craft, over growth and what you 'should' do.
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
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 RUclips 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 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!
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!
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!
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. RUclips changed there policy. If you dont poat for 6 months you will be demonized. I doubt people want to lose that.
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.
This year I'm seeing many RUclipsrs stepping away from content creation for a break. Appreciate all the knowledge you have shared so far. Did learn many things from you.
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
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 RUclipsr 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!
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!
All great points I think many RUclips creators have had to work through or deal with if you’ve been doing this with any success for over 10 years. As RUclips 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.
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 !
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
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!
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 RUclips creator, and I eagerly look forward to your future contributions (in whatever form they may take).
RUclips is a strange career. Make sure to take care of yourself. The great thing about the internet is that regardless of how niche your interests are, there are 100,000s of people who are into that stuff too. Just focus on what you enjoy :)
"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 👏🏻
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!
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 RUclipsr 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!
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.
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 RUclips now for eight years, everything you said resonated with me. It gets tiring fighting with the RUclips 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.
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 RUclips 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.
Your YT journey sound so similar to mine. Every word resonates with me. Thank you Caleb for making this video. This year is also my 14th year. I have over 200 million views. Over 30 videos with more than a million views. When YT enforced COPPA, affecting channels containing content made for kids, my channel went into a free fall. My week would consist of posting a video on Thursday followed by a meltdown on Friday. I would spin like you did trying to figure out how to win at this “YT game”. I have my silver YT button and attended a few workshops put on by YT. None of these things helped me. My channel has evolved over the years and now I make content that appeals to children AND adult doll collectors. But it’s not easy getting around COPPA. I took 2 years off to take care of family things. Reading the comments on my channel from fans who miss us really encourages me to come back. I really love what I do. I’m a creator… my imagination is my super power. I have so many ideas waiting to be expressed. I’ll be back and making videos because I want to.
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.
Agree 100% with the input/output equation. While being a RUclipsr has the ‘cool’ factor, financially it can be like earning minimum wage and still finding a way to survive & thrive in a world with a rising cost of living. Which increases the pressure to monetize with sponsored videos etc. and you end up making videos for others but not for yourself, just to make it sustainable. I just wrapped a 30+ minute video for my own channel which took about 3 weeks- while I'm pretty sure it will perform well, longer content is the biggest gamble as it’s maximum input for unknown output. Something I'm going to try to counter that, is setting a limit for content length. 1-5 mins max per video. That way if content doesn't perform, you haven't wasted a month of your time. Perhaps you want to consider a similar approach. Anyway, thanks for starting the conversation 😁
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 RUclips. 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.
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.
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
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
When the tech/camera industry was fun the videos were fun. When the industry became boring so followed RUclips. That is the main thing I’ve seen. Good luck my friend.
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 👍
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.
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 :)
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.
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!!!!
So this video is the real deal for all content creators who've been doing this for a while. For me, YT is a side hustle, but I sure have been caught up in the "wave" thing and it's incredible how rough it is when you fall off of the wave. I decided much of the same thing you decided about a year ago. And YT life is better. Thanks for sharing such a personal video. My guess is you've helped more people than you know...
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.
Get out of my head!! Sometimes it takes me hours just to hit record. Or I'll procrastinate. Granted I am only 2 years in but you described me -the physical panic attacks (mine are mental). I know the amount of work and detail you put in your videos so I can only imagine the pressure.
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. :)
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 went through a situation similar to yours and today I apply the vast majority of these rules on my channel and I’m much happier producing content, I had a difficult time After all I’m on this platform 12 years It was difficult but it passed today I produce what I want Like in the old days.
Thank you for sharing what you’ve learned behind the scenes, it really is helpful Hope we’ll all learn to take a step back. We can’t control how the platform works, but we can control how we want to invest ourselves. We can choose to follow the kinds of projects that truly bring us joy If it started as a passion, I believe we can keep it that way. At least we shall try 😉
I've been watching you for years and I relate with you so much. RUclips wires your brain differently in a negative way. The stresses that come are huge. Thanks for making the video bro.
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.
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 .
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!
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!
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 RUclipsr, 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
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!
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.
Bro wants a "dream job". A job is a job. Get used to it. Would you rather work 0800-1800 and fear a layoff at any moment? 😂😂😂😂 like bro, you have it so good. 😂😂😂
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 RUclips 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 RUclips 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 RUclips any time soon. 👍
About 1.5 years ago I decided to stop completely and delist about 70% of my videos. It still feels like a relief. I had a lot of fun in the beginning, but it started to feel like an obligation. My life was all about “oh that’s a good video topic”. Happy for you finding your balance, especially because you were one of my role models when I started in 2017.
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.
The most interesting facet of your channel that attracted me was the creativity and things you made and make available for purchase. So great decision. Congrats going forward. ❤
This is a beautiful video that every RUclipsr should watch (maybe more than once). Thank you.
I have been learning so much from you over the years Caleb. Thanks for all the hard work you have put into this amazing channel! I admire the courage you have in talking about the challenges of stress and anxiety. I too suffer from anxiety attacks and other symptoms. All the best going forward!
Agreed with everything, I really appreciate your will to change. Your videos gave us so much through the years and I'm so grateful for all the knowledge you shared! Here's to more you and more time with your family🍻
We’ve been following you for years and glad your doing things what works for you. Family’s important money and fame comes after. Any support we’re here for you.
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!
This was an awesome video Caleb. Thank you for sharing.
I think real success comes when we live our lives at our own terms, not to please anyone but to please ourselves mostly. I'm happy that you're in a path where you can really shine! Cheers!
I think this is not only happening with youtube creators, I think is systemic.
There is a great book called The Burnout society. Talks about all the things you mentioned in this video.
There are great videos that summarize the book, highly recommend it.
Btw, you were one of the first channels I started following when I went deep on RUclips. Always loved your content, great quality and usefulness.
Hope you follow your intuition and do what is best for you and your family!
These rules are awesome and resonate withe me - mine are even simpler, Stay Safe, Have fun Making Stuff and above all keep Smiling - See Ya !
Bravo! Good on ya Caleb. Do what’s right for u!
1. You are a fantastic creator and as a video professional you have been my number 1 favourite creator out of the many many out there.
2. You are one the most impressively creative and inventive people I know of. MY FAVOURITE work of yours by far is when you are inventing your own kits and making your own unique rigs. It's beyond impressive.
3. You deserve peace, you really deserve it. So glad to hear you've put the work in therapy and are working with these 'rules'. Glad you're still around.
Thank you for this video. It's inspiring to hear someone honour themselves, their family and their craft, over growth and what you 'should' do.
Thanks for the video
Very well said Caleb ❤❤
Read the book effortless
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 ❤
RUclips 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
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 RUclips 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 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. =)
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!
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!
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. RUclips 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.
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.
This year I'm seeing many RUclipsrs 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
Thanks!
What! So unnecessary! Thank you for the encouragement!
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
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 RUclipsr 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!
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!
Thank you for sharing 🙏. This resonates with me and - from reading the comments - with many other RUclips creators
All great points I think many RUclips creators have had to work through or deal with if you’ve been doing this with any success for over 10 years. As RUclips 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.
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.
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
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!
Finally a change from DSLR Video Shooter to Mirrorless Video Shooter!
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 RUclips creator, and I eagerly look forward to your future contributions (in whatever form they may take).
Great thoughts, keep the maker making for the fun of it!
RUclips is a strange career. Make sure to take care of yourself. The great thing about the internet is that regardless of how niche your interests are, there are 100,000s of people who are into that stuff too. Just focus on what you enjoy :)
Thanks man :-) Hope you are well!
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!!!
"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 👏🏻
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.
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 RUclipsr 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
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 ❤
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.
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. ✌🏽
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 RUclips now for eight years, everything you said resonated with me. It gets tiring fighting with the RUclips 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.
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 RUclips 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.
I appreciate you Caleb for opening up. All the power to you for making this decision! Make for you and not for the algorithm.
Your YT journey sound so similar to mine. Every word resonates with me. Thank you Caleb for making this video.
This year is also my 14th year. I have over 200 million views. Over 30 videos with more than a million views. When YT enforced COPPA, affecting channels containing content made for kids, my channel went into a free fall. My week would consist of posting a video on Thursday followed by a meltdown on Friday. I would spin like you did trying to figure out how to win at this “YT game”. I have my silver YT button and attended a few workshops put on by YT. None of these things helped me.
My channel has evolved over the years and now I make content that appeals to children AND adult doll collectors. But it’s not easy getting around COPPA. I took 2 years off to take care of family things. Reading the comments on my channel from fans who miss us really encourages me to come back. I really love what I do. I’m a creator… my imagination is my super power. I have so many ideas waiting to be expressed. I’ll be back and making videos because I want to.
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.
Agree 100% with the input/output equation. While being a RUclipsr has the ‘cool’ factor, financially it can be like earning minimum wage and still finding a way to survive & thrive in a world with a rising cost of living.
Which increases the pressure to monetize with sponsored videos etc. and you end up making videos for others but not for yourself, just to make it sustainable.
I just wrapped a 30+ minute video for my own channel which took about 3 weeks- while I'm pretty sure it will perform well, longer content is the biggest gamble as it’s maximum input for unknown output. Something I'm going to try to counter that, is setting a limit for content length. 1-5 mins max per video. That way if content doesn't perform, you haven't wasted a month of your time. Perhaps you want to consider a similar approach.
Anyway, thanks for starting the conversation 😁
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!
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 RUclips. 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.
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.
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
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
When the tech/camera industry was fun the videos were fun. When the industry became boring so followed RUclips. That is the main thing I’ve seen. Good luck my friend.
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 👍
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.
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 :)
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.
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!!!!
So this video is the real deal for all content creators who've been doing this for a while. For me, YT is a side hustle, but I sure have been caught up in the "wave" thing and it's incredible how rough it is when you fall off of the wave. I decided much of the same thing you decided about a year ago. And YT life is better. Thanks for sharing such a personal video. My guess is you've helped more people than you know...
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.
Very relatable. Thanks Caleb, I found this super meaningful. RUclips is the best worst job ever, it’s amazing the toll it takes on creators.
Thanks so much for sharing all your experience and insight, Caleb. As a "New" RUclipsr, this was all good information.
Get out of my head!! Sometimes it takes me hours just to hit record. Or I'll procrastinate. Granted I am only 2 years in but you described me -the physical panic attacks (mine are mental). I know the amount of work and detail you put in your videos so I can only imagine the pressure.
RUclips gives us a 1099 we are considered an independent contractor. RUclips is a business ....... Not a Job
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. :)
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 went through a situation similar to yours and today I apply the vast majority of these rules on my channel and I’m much happier producing content, I had a difficult time After all I’m on this platform 12 years It was difficult but it passed today I produce what I want Like in the old days.
Thank you for sharing what you’ve learned behind the scenes, it really is helpful
Hope we’ll all learn to take a step back.
We can’t control how the platform works, but we can control how we want to invest ourselves. We can choose to follow the kinds of projects that truly bring us joy
If it started as a passion, I believe we can keep it that way. At least we shall try 😉
I've been watching you for years and I relate with you so much. RUclips wires your brain differently in a negative way. The stresses that come are huge. Thanks for making the video bro.
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.
I have never felt more related to with my RUclips. Coming up on 4 years in I’m feeling this heavy. Thank you sir for this
I definitely can relate to this, thank you for sharing this precious testimony!
I am a silent follower based in Italy ❤️
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 .
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!
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!
I took a multi year break from RUclips and am now coming back with a complete renewed sense of direction.
Most of your rules and general work philosophy applies to most of us, so thanks for that. I know I needed to hear some of this stuff.
Wish Mati would quit YT for good - Not just 1 year - Success has went to his head
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.
I love your RUclips channel, I'd watch anything you post.
awesome stuff man! im really excited for you in this next chapter
Love this! So much truth. Let's "make" together Caleb!
thanks for your tips and you put words on these things, it helps more than you know.
really well said you do a great job and what ever you put on I'm sure I'll love it
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 RUclipsr, 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
Lots of great points here. I'm taking notes... 📝
Real Talk, I appreciated this video...
Much respect on the video. More people need to hear this.
This is all really good advice that I need to hear.
Great video, thanks Caleb.
Just another youtuber confirmed: youtube DOES NOT make you decent money for all your hard work... its only good for scam...
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!
At the end of the day, RUclips works like a job unfortunately, it rewards consistency, quality and quantity.
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.
Bro wants a "dream job". A job is a job. Get used to it. Would you rather work 0800-1800 and fear a layoff at any moment? 😂😂😂😂 like bro, you have it so good. 😂😂😂