I’ve noticed a big difference between creating videos for myself and for YouTube Shorts. When I make Shorts, I automatically start tracking views, likes, comments, reach 📊🔥. I care about how well the video performs and whether the algorithm will push it.

But when I create videos for myself, I simply enjoy the process 🎬✨. For example, I used to make Instagram Reels—not for reach, but because it’s convenient to edit 15-second clips and easily add music 🎵📱. At the end of the year, you get a mini-movie of your year 📅🎞, which is so cool to watch back later.

The Inner Conflict: Create What I Love or What the Platform Wants?

Today, I filmed a beautiful ocean landscape 🌊🌅. I just wanted to add music and leave 18 seconds of pure aesthetic enjoyment. That was enough for me. But then a voice in my head said: “This format won’t work for Shorts. You need fast cuts to grab attention in the first 5 seconds” ⏳⚡.

And that’s when the real question hit me: why am I even doing this? 🤯 If I only make videos for the algorithm, won’t I lose my motivation?

Solution: Finding My Audience 🧑‍🤝‍🧑💙

On one hand, I could play the algorithm game, make fast-paced Shorts, and chase retention rates 📈💥. But what if there’s an audience that actually enjoys calm, relaxing videos? 🌿🎶 If I enjoy this style, there must be others who do too.

💡 Conclusion? I’ll create videos the way I like! Because if I only make content for the algorithm, I’ll burn out fast and lose interest 😵‍💫💭. But if I find my audience, my content will naturally grow and bring real joy 😌🎉.