For the past few years, I’ve considered starting a YouTube channel. It was something I really wanted to do, something I saw a lot of potential with, but every time I began to let myself seriously consider it, I would talk myself out of it.
Why? Because it would take a lot of work to figure out what would be successful, because I don’t know how to edit videos, and because all of the details required to pull it off felt overwhelming.
I decided to stop making excuses in 2017 and to just start. I don’t know what will be successful on YouTube, but I’ve begun following other successful YouTubers and paying attention to what’s working for them.
I set goals to spend a little bit of time each week to learn how to use iMovie. And then I committed to just start posting videos on YouTube — even if they are far from perfect.
It’s going to be an adventure and I know I’m going to make some mistakes along the way, but I’ll never get anywhere if I don’t get brave and just start.
What do you wish you could do in 2017? Stop letting excuses or fear of failure or lack of enough knowledge or experience hold you back. Instead, I challenge you to just start… start somewhere, do something, take that first step. You’ve got what it takes to just start!
Don’t wait for perfect conditions. Don’t wait until you have it all figured out.
Just start. Take that first step. Today.
It won’t be perfect. It might take you longer than you expected. And there will probably be some bumps and detours on the journey.
But you’ll never reach the finish line if you keep making excuses for getting off the starting blocks. Just start!
Psst! Get your very own “Just Start” bracelet for just $9.99 shipped when you use coupon code BESTWEEK3 at checkout! This offer is valid through January 4, 2017.
Christy says
I think you will be great! Looking forward to your you tube channel!
Bonnie says
How do I find a link to order the bracelet?
Crystal says
I can’t wait to subscribe to your channel…and I hate subscribing to things. ;). You d been an encouragement to me.
~Crystal
Crystal Paine says
Aw, thank you so much!
April says
I love this! I have been attempting blogging for the past couple months and have even written ~10 posts, but have yet to hit “publish”. I’ve read countless articles and watched so many videos…but, I just feel paralyzed by the thought of my blog being “out there”. I am definitely going to take your advice and just start. Thanks for being an inspiration. I truly enjoy your blog and how relatable you are.
Crystal Paine says
You can do it! Yes, you can! I’m cheering for you!
MaryBeth says
I love the bracelet but see it’s only 7 inches circumference, according to the site. That is too small for my big boned wrists. If that number isn’t right, can someone let me know? I don’t want to buy something and have it be too tight.
By the way, I can’t see what changes you have in store for 2017 — you are such an inspiration.
Crystal Paine says
You could ask Cents of Style about it. I don’t know that they have more than one size, but it never hurts to ask!
Emily says
This reminds me of Tina Fey’s quote, “Say yes, you’ll figure it out afterward.” Something we all should remember as we head into the new year, Thanks for the reminder!
Crystal Paine says
😉
Taran Conwell says
So happy to hear this!!! YouTube is my jam, I’m much more into vlogs than I am into blogs. I love when you do Facebook lives, so I’m sure your channel will be a hit. Good luck on your new adventure:)
Crystal Paine says
Yay! That makes me so happy!
Jessica says
I love watching YouTube while I’m working around the house. I’m excited to watch your videos! I’m always encouraged by you! By your knowledge and ability to step out courageously and accomplish what you set your mind to.
Crystal Paine says
Aw, thank you so much for your kind encouragement!!
Kristine says
Hi Crystal! I just needed to say things really happen in mysterious ways. As I’m reading your post I can’t believe my eyes! I jut today wrote my New Years Day post (just starting out, writing a bunch of posts before I officially launch my site) and it’s about “No more excuses. This is my year to Get It Done” And I got that idea from you and your ‘Year of Rest”. My excuses have been my depression and financial situation (both of us is on disability, we don’t even have a car). I’m going to school (holistic health and recovery coach) which will remedy my financial situation and I want to get off these meds and use something natural. But regardless of money or meds, I just need to Get It Done in 2017! Thank you for all your inspiration and word of encouragement.
Happy New Year to you and your family.
Kristine 🙂
Crystal Paine says
Yes, yes, yes!!!! I love this! Thank you for sharing!
Ben Bergmann says
That’s great to hear!
My goal for 2017 is to keep trying new things that make me feel uncomfortable. If I don’t like it I can stop it again after a while, but at least I have given it a go.
Crystal Paine says
You can do it!! I’m cheering for you!
Evie k says
That’s great… And great encouragement for me to just start what I feel I need to do. And follow your example to start getting passive income and get us back on the mission field full time.
Crystal Paine says
Thank you for your kind encouragement!
emily hope says
love this! reminds me of Elisabeth Elliot’s encouragement to just “do the next thing.” I’m sure you’ll be an amazing you-tuber 😉
Crystal Paine says
Aw, thank you so much! And I love that quote!
Alex Garcia says
I am so excited to watch your YouTube channel!
Crystal Paine says
Aw, thank you so much!!