Building a YouTube channel is often described as a marathon, not a sprint. But for many creators, this marathon can feel more like running in circles around an algorithm that seems to mock them.

If you've ever thought about quitting your YouTube channel, it might help to remember that most creators give up just before they are about to hit a breakthrough. Don’t make the premature decision of quitting a YouTube channel before understanding how YouTube’s compound interest can lead to long-term success.

One of the harsh realities of YouTube is that most creators quit before they ever see any form of success.

Whether it's due to bad luck, poor content, or simply a lack of patience, many have unrealistic expectations. They see viral videos and assume that success should come easily and quickly, when the opposite is true. Take these numbers for instance:

The struggle isn’t just limited to new creators with even the top channels facing significant failure rates.

Successful YouTube channels operate like investments

Think of your channel as a savings account, with every video you upload acting like a small deposit. Initially, you may not see significant growth, but as you keep feeding your channel quality content, YouTube will start to reward you. This is where the concept of YouTube's “compound interest” comes into play. The more you invest in your channel, the greater the potential payout down the road.

When it comes to the idea of YouTube’s compound interest, think of it in three phases:

The key is to keep showing up, even when the views are low and the engagement seems non-existent. You don’t have to be the most talented or the most charismatic; what matters is your persistence.

, known as MKBHD. In the early days of his channel, his videos were not the best in terms of production quality, yet he kept posting. His tenacity paid off, and he is now a leading figure in the tech space.

The bottom line? It’s not about being perfect. It's about being relentless.

When you adopt a long-term “investment” perspective, each video becomes a stepping stone toward something greater. Instead of fixating on the video that didn’t perform well, focus on what you are building over the next few years. This long-term strategy will help you weather the ups and downs of content creation.

Feeling stuck in the grind is completely normal

, but quitting a YouTube channel during this phase means giving up on future breakthroughs. Remember, even seasoned creators are always learning and evolving, so don’t feel discouraged if you still have a lot to learn yourself.

What many creators miss are the subtle indicators that precede meaningful growth, such as:

1. Shifting focus from numbers to community

When you start thinking more about serving your existing audience than chasing new viewers, you're aligning with YouTube's core algorithm values.

If your 10th video is better than your first, and your 20th better than your 10th, you're building the foundation for eventual success.

Success rarely arrives as one viral explosion—it often appears as small, consistent increases in retention, subscribers, or engagement.

every day you continue to play this YouTube game, you're beating everybody who's quit already.

Moving Beyond YouTube Algorithm Obsession

Impatience kills more YouTube channels than poor content ever could.

 rewards long-term commitment. When you stop worrying about immediate views and start focusing on the value you provide, your channel will begin to grow. This shift in mindset often occurs around the time of monetization. Many creators find that once they achieve the milestone of 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours, they realize that the focus should be on serving their audience rather than chasing the algorithm.

Remember: Expecting to become an overnight sensation is unrealistic. The obsession with going viral can lead to a gambling mentality where each video is a desperate swing for success. Even if a viral moment happens, it often leaves creators unprepared for sustained growth.

The YouTube journey includes inevitable periods of creative explosion followed by burnout—experienced by creators of all sizes. Before quitting a YouTube channel, recognize that these cycles are normal and that success often arrives just beyond your breaking point.

By treating your channel as a long-term investment, you position yourself to experience the rewards that come to those with the patience to persist when others quit.

Remember, every creator has their unique journey, and yours is just beginning.

You are closer to your YouTube goals than you think

Discover why quitting a YouTube channel too soon could be your biggest mistake and how persistence leads to success.

Why Quitting a YouTube Channel Might Be Your Biggest Mistake

is an experienced YouTuber and prolific content creator, known for crafting engaging and educational videos that resonate with millions of viewers. With years of experience building successful channels, Hank offers invaluable insights into the art of creating compelling content.

Creating compelling and engaging YouTube content goes far beyond just pointing a camera and hitting “record.”

In fact, great videos often start with great writing. Whether you’re a seasoned creator or 

, understanding how to craft strong YouTube video concepts is crucial to growing your channel and connecting with your audience.

This guide draws on Hank Green’s expertise to break down five actionable tips to help you write better YouTube videos.

1. Start with a Clear Topic and Frame It Creatively

The first step in writing any YouTube video is to 

 and then decide how you want to approach it. Hank emphasizes the importance of working 

—an angle or perspective that shapes how you present the subject matter.

For example, if your video is about a recent scientific development, you could frame it as:

A straightforward explanation of the discovery

An analysis of its implications for the future

Hank shares his own experience covering the news of 

. Instead of making a purely positive or purely negative video, he chose to frame it as 

 This approach teases apart the complexity of the topic, piquing viewers’ curiosity by promising a nuanced exploration rather than a one-sided opinion.

If I made a video that was like, ‘This direwolf thing is crap,’ everybody would know the answer and lose curiosity. But if I say, ‘This is good and also bad and some of it’s really bad,’ then you’re curious which parts fit where.

2. Strike While the Iron Is Hot: Act Quickly on Trending Topics

Timing can be everything on YouTube. When a 

 or newsworthy, producing content quickly can significantly boost your video’s reach and relevance. Hank points out that when you’re starting out, it’s easier to act fast because you have fewer layers of production and approval to navigate.

For example, Hank started making the direwolf de-extinction video the day after the news broke. This immediacy helped capture the audience while the topic was still fresh in their minds. However, creators with longer production timelines may find it challenging to capitalize on breaking news.

If you can be aware of what people are excited about and act fast, you get more opportunities. But it’s a lot of work because you have to do research really fast.

To effectively act on trending topics, you’ll need to:

Stay plugged into current events, trends, and conversations in your niche

Develop a streamlined research and scripting process

Be ready to pivot your content plans quickly

. It’s designed to keep you informed about emerging topics in your niche, so you can identify opportunities before they peak. By leveraging tools like this, you can ensure your content stays relevant and reaches audiences hungry for timely information.

This agility allows you to ride the wave of interest and attract viewers who are hungry for timely information.

3. Escalate the Stakes to Keep Viewers Engaged

When someone clicks on your video, they’re taking a risk—they might be disappointed, bored, amused, or blown away. It all depends on how you engage with them.

 throughout your video. This means demonstrating why the topic matters and building anticipation for the insights or revelations you’re about to share.

Hank recommends reaffirming that your video will deliver on the promise made in the title, but also hinting that there’s an even bigger story or consequence that viewers might not expect.

He does caution against manipulative clickbait tactics, however. Authenticity is always key. If you exaggerate stakes without follow-through, you risk losing trust and alienating your audience.

Highlighting the real-world impact of the topic

Introducing surprising facts or perspectives gradually

By building layers of significance, you keep viewers curious and invested in watching until the end.

4. Bring Your Unique Perspective and Personality

One of the most powerful ways to make your YouTube content stand out is to let your personality shine through. Hank emphasizes that having a clear 

 and showing your authentic self helps build a relationship with your audience.

By gradually allowing your voice, opinions, and quirks to come forward, you can create a connection that goes far beyond just the video topic.

, an archaeology YouTuber, as someone who excels at this. Stefan’s videos escalate stakes, then offer moments where his personality and enthusiasm become apparent, making viewers want to come back for more.

If I watch one video from you, I need a reason to watch a second video from you. People who just make content-farm stuff might as well be AI—they don’t last.

Be honest and transparent about your views

Share personal anecdotes or reactions when appropriate

Engage with your audience as a person, not just a content machine

This approach builds loyalty and turns casual viewers into long-term fans.

5. Consume Broadly to Fuel Creativity and Innovation

Hank’s most important writing tip transcends YouTube: 

. Creativity thrives at the intersection of diverse ideas, so limiting yourself to only watching content similar to yours can lead to stagnation.

He encourages watching a wide variety of videos, even from creators and genres you don’t aspire to emulate. You can learn new techniques, storytelling devices, or presentation styles that you never would have discovered otherwise.

Inspiration does not strike when you’re staring at a wall. It strikes because you have different things from different areas that are being connected together.

Expanding your content consumption helps you:

Stay ahead of evolving trends and audience preferences

Build a richer toolkit of creative possibilities

Ultimately, the best ideas often come from combining seemingly unrelated concepts in unexpected ways.

Writing Is the Foundation of Great YouTube Video Concepts

 in producing successful YouTube videos. By approaching your videos like essays or articles, you can craft clearer, more engaging narratives that resonate with viewers.

Start with a clear topic and frame it creatively to hook your audience.

Act quickly on trending topics to capture timely interest.

Escalate the stakes authentically to keep viewers engaged.

Bring your unique perspective and personality to build connection.

Consume a broad range of content to fuel inspiration and innovation.

Implementing these strategies will elevate your video concepts to stand out in an increasingly competitive landscape.

notepad with "writing better YouTube video concepts" written on it

Learn five actionable tips from Hank Green to craft engaging YouTube videos that hook, inspire, and keep viewers watching.

5 Essential Tips for Better YouTube Video Concepts

Are those dips in your YouTube retention graph keeping you up at night? You're not alone. Many creators wonder if they can salvage underperforming videos by editing out sections where viewers drop off. But should you edit YouTube videos after upload? We’ll cover a strategic approach that even top creators like MrBeast have experimented with.

 is a crucial metric for any content creator. It tells you how long viewers are staying engaged with your YouTube video. If you notice significant dips in your retention graph, it’s worth investigating. A drop in viewership can indicate that parts of your video are boring or unengaging. But does that mean you should immediately edit those sections? Not necessarily.

YouTube’s Retention graphs can be incredibly insightful. For instance, if you see a steep drop at a specific point, it might suggest that viewers are losing interest. But before you edit, consider the context of that drop. For instance, is it during a long intro, or does it occur during critical content? Understanding why viewers are tuning out is key to determining whether an edit is necessary.

Learning from retention graph data means analyzing both the drops and the sections where viewers are most engaged. Instead of focusing solely on editing uploaded content, consider how those learnings can enhance your next project.

What Editing After Upload Can and Cannot Do

 has specific limitations that are critical to understand before you start cutting:

Trim the beginning, middle, or end of your video

Remove entire sections that might be causing viewers to leave

Make simple cuts without requiring a re-upload

Preserve your video’s URL, views, comments, and engagement history

Make complex edits that require professional editing software

The YouTube Studio editor makes it relatively easy to edit YouTube videos after upload, trimming unwanted sections and making changes in a matter of minutes. However, the simplicity of the tool means you need to be strategic about what you cut.

Should You Edit Your YouTube Video After Uploading?

The answer isn’t straightforward. Editing uploaded videos can be beneficial, but it also has its drawbacks. Here’s a breakdown of the considerations you should keep in mind.

Benefits of Editing YouTube Videos After Uploading

 If you remove sections that are clearly causing viewers to leave, you could potentially boost your watch time.

 Trimming unnecessary content can lead to a more engaging video, making it easier for your audience to stay connected.

 Making edits allows you to experiment and see if changes positively affect your metrics.

Drawbacks of Editing YouTube Videos After Uploading

 Removing sections can disrupt the flow of your video, leading to confusion. If you cut out a part that sets up a joke or a critical piece of information, viewers might feel lost.

 Editing can be a lengthy process, and if the video is performing well, it might not be worth the effort.

 There’s no guarantee that your edits will improve performance. Sometimes, changes can make things worse.

When to Consider Editing After Uploading to YouTube

Not every dip in your retention graph warrants post-upload editing. Here are scenarios where it might make sense:

One of the most common causes of early drop-offs is lengthy introductions. If your retention graph shows a significant dip in the first 30 - 60 seconds, trimming your intro could lead to immediate improvements.

The end section of YouTube videos often shows a retention drop where viewers lose interest after the 

. If your outro is followed by unnecessary content, trimming the tail end could boost your overall retention metrics.

If specific content sections cause noticeable viewer abandonment, and removing them wouldn’t disrupt the video’s logical flow, strategic trimming might make sense. Ensure that edits don’t create awkward transitions or confuse viewers.

Before rushing to edit your uploaded video, consider these important factors:

If your video is performing well but has low 

, it might not be worth making changes. Conversely, for underperforming videos, thoughtful editing might be worth experimenting with, though it’s unlikely to "resurrect" a video that’s fundamentally missing the mark.

Weighing Potential Benefits Against Risks

Each video edit carries both potential upside and downside. Key considerations include:

 Will the edit create awkward transitions or remove necessary context?

 Are comments specifically mentioning sections that drag?

 or thumbnail deliver better results than editing the video itself?

How to Strategically Edit YouTube Videos After Upload

If you’ve decided to move forward with editing uploaded videos, here’s a step-by-step approach:

1. Analyze Your Retention Graph Thoroughly

Look for sharp drops rather than gradual declines.

Note timestamp correlations with specific content segments.

Consider whether the drop-off coincides with topic changes or segment transitions.

Click on "Content" in the left navigation.

Find and select the video you want to edit.

Drag the red box to select the section you want to remove.

Preview your edit to ensure the transition works.

Establish a clear measurement process. Focus on metrics like:

Average view duration (before and after the edit)

Learning from MrBeast and Other Top Creators

 have experimented with editing uploaded videos to improve performance. While this technique isn’t a guaranteed success, it highlights the importance of continually refining content and learning from audience behavior.

While fixing existing videos has its place, the most valuable approach combines reactive editing with proactive improvement:

Apply retention insights to future videos:

 Use data to refine intros, pacing, and transitions.

 and title might deliver far greater performance improvements than minor video edits.

The Balance Between Perfectionism and Progress

Avoid falling into the trap of endlessly editing uploaded content. Instead, focus on:

Making obvious improvements to existing videos when clear opportunities exist.

Recognizing when diminishing returns suggest moving on.

Strategically editing uploaded YouTube videos can improve engagement metrics, but the real value lies in applying insights to future content. Experimentation, measurement, and adaptation remain your most powerful tools for long-term success.

Here are 4 Editing Hacks to Make any YouTube Video go Viral

Boost engagement by trimming dips in retention graphs post-upload. Learn strategic editing tips for better YouTube performance.

Improving Engagement: How to Strategically Edit YouTube Videos After Upload

On April 23, 2005, a simple video at the San Diego Zoo sparked the creation of what would become the world's largest video platform.

As YouTube celebrates its 20th anniversary, we reflect on how this revolutionary platform transformed 

Twenty years ago, YouTube co-founder Jawed Karim uploaded the platform's first video, "

." This 19-second clip, featuring Karim in front of elephants, now has over 355 million views. It was a modest beginning for a platform that quickly evolved from a niche video-sharing site into a global phenomenon.

Founded by Karim, Chad Hurley, and Steve Chen, YouTube officially launched on December 15, 2005.

By the end of its first year, YouTube was serving 2 million daily video views. Just 10 months later, Google acquired YouTube, setting the stage for its explosive growth. Today, the platform hosts over five billion videos, with 360 hours of content uploaded every minute.

Transforming Entertainment and Viewing Habits

At 20 years old, YouTube’s influence on entertainment is unparalleled. Viewing habits have evolved from computer-based browsing to mobile streaming and, more recently, 

 as smart TVs become ubiquitous. Surprisingly, more Americans now watch YouTube on TVs than on any other device.

As YouTube turns 20, its content offerings continue to expand:

: The platform’s fastest-growing format.

: With over one billion monthly viewers, YouTube has become a leading platform for podcast content.

: Real-time engagement through immersive live features.

: Home to over 300 videos in the "billion views club," including groundbreaking hits like 

From music to gaming, YouTube has redefined entire industries:

: Artists like Justin Bieber and Billie Eilish were discovered on YouTube, and the platform now rivals traditional music outlets.

: With live streams and gaming content drawing millions of viewers, YouTube Live reached a peak of 16 million concurrent viewers in October 2023.

: Children’s content creators, like Miss Rachel, have become household names for young families.

YouTube serves as a "superpower in our pocket," offering tutorials on virtually any subject. 

Ninety-five percent of Americans have used YouTube to learn something new

, and 94% of U.S. teachers incorporate the platform into their classrooms.

At its core, YouTube is about connection. From creators responding to comments to users discovering niche interests, the platform fosters meaningful engagement. Features like "hearting" comments and the "Sort by Oldest" option highlight its commitment to community, reminding us that every creator starts with a single upload.

As YouTube celebrates this milestone, it continues to fulfill its mission of giving everyone a voice and showing them the world. From a zoo video to a global empire, YouTube’s journey underscores the power of storytelling and the remarkable things that happen when people share their stories

YouTube turns 20: from a zoo video to a global platform reshaping entertainment, education, and connection worldwide.

YouTube Turns 20: From Zoo Video to Global Empire

Making the transition to a full-time YouTuber is a big step for many content creators. Like all big changes, it can bring excitement as well as significant challenges and uncertainties.

If you're considering going all in, here are essential tips for full-time YouTubers to help you navigate this journey successfully.

Understanding the Financial Aspects of a Full-time YouTuber

Financial planning is one of the most crucial tips for full-time YouTubers because it directly impacts your ability to sustain your lifestyle. It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of a viral video, but you need to plan for the future so you have the stability to keep making great content.

For instance, if you had a video that garnered tons of views and earned thousands of dollars, congratulations! But remember, this most likely won't be the norm because YouTube income is "consistently inconsistent.

Before making the leap, you should have a financial cushion. Aim to have at least three to six months of living expenses saved up. This includes rent, healthcare, taxes, and all other bills. The unpredictable nature of YouTube income means that what you earn one month might not be the same the next. Having savings allows you the freedom to take a mental health break or experiment with content without the pressure of immediate financial strain.

One of the most practical tips for full-time YouTubers is to create a separate account specifically for tax funds. YouTube does not withhold taxes from your payouts, so it’s best to set aside approximately 33% of your YouTube earnings for taxes. The IRS expects its cut, and it's better to be safe than sorry.

Remember, as a self-employed creator, you're responsible for all tax payments.

Depending on your content type, you might want to consider 

 (Limited Liability Company). While this might not be necessary for everyone, it can protect you from liability, especially if your content touches on controversial subjects or you engage with brands. It's a good safety measure to have, even if you’re starting small.

you lose benefits including healthcare when you quit your job

One of the often-overlooked tips for full-time YouTubers is planning for the loss of company-sponsored benefits when transitioning to full-time content creation. Accidents can happen, so it's essential to have healthcare coverage to avoid financial disasters.

Be sure to secure your own healthcare benefits as you become a full-time YouTuber. Start by researching healthcare options immediately to find one that provides adequate coverage within your price range. Along with that, you may want to consider getting disability insurance as well to protect your income.

Unlike a traditional job with a steady paycheck, YouTube income can be erratic. One month you might earn a lot, while the next you might not.

Being mentally prepared for this inconsistency can go a long way. For instance, you might put in the same amount of work but receive drastically different pay based on viewer engagement and ad revenue fluctuations. Going into your full-time YouTube career knowing this will make it that much easier to navigate.

Relying solely on ad revenue can be risky. Many full-time YouTubers diversify their income streams by exploring options like 

, merchandise, providing services, Patreon, or even Twitch streaming. This way, if one income source dips, others can help keep you afloat.

 sounds appealing, it also comes with responsibilities. For starters, you need to be very self-motivated and extremely disciplined.

To do this, you’re going to have to stay on top of everything that goes into running a successful channel, such as developing a production schedule, creating a content calendar, setting deadlines, and holding yourself accountable on all fronts. The freedom of being a full-time YouTuber can quickly turn into chaos without structure.

Learn essential tips for transitioning to a full-time YouTuber, including financial planning, income diversification, and growth strategies.

Darryl Rentz

Posts Written By Darryl Rentz

Why Quitting a YouTube Channel Might Be Your Biggest Mistake

5 Essential Tips for Better YouTube Video Concepts

Improving Engagement: How to Strategically Edit YouTube Videos After Upload

YouTube Turns 20: From Zoo Video to Global Empire

Tips for Full-Time YouTubers: When to Take the Leap

Break Your Upload Hesitation: Finding Video Inspiration

Beyond AdSense: Using Brand Promotion as Your YouTube Monetization Strategy

How to Optimize YouTube Shorts

How to Create Signature YouTube Gaming Content

Monetize Your YouTube Channel in As Little As 30 Days

Creator Earnings Overhaul: YouTube's 2025 Money Update

How to Make a YouTube Short In 2025: The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide