Becoming a Creator in 2025: My Take
Becoming a digital creator in 2025 is both an exciting opportunity and a serious challenge. The landscape has shifted dramatically from just a few years ago. Platforms have evolved, algorithms have changed, and competition has skyrocketed. But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible—it just means you need the right mindset, strategies, and focus. Here’s my take on what it takes to succeed.
The Evolution of the Creator Landscape
Back in 2020, platforms like TikTok made it feel like anyone could go viral with minimal effort. You could post a simple video of making pasta dough, and suddenly you’d have thousands of views overnight. Those days? They’re long gone. The game has changed, and so has the audience.
In 2013, when I started as a micro-influencer, the creator economy was still emerging. Brands were eager to collaborate, send free products, and invite influencers to events. Fast forward to 2025, and that landscape has shrunk. Brands are more selective, the market is saturated with creators, and the competition for attention is fiercer than ever.
What Makes 2025 Unique for Creators?
Here’s what has changed drastically:
Oversaturation of Creators
Everyone and their mother wants to be a creator now. It sounds like a dream job—getting paid to create content. But this has made it harder to stand out. Many creators copy trends or each other’s content, which leads to repetition and a lack of originality.
The Shift to Interest-Based Algorithms
Platforms like TikTok pioneered the shift from follower-based content to interest-based content. Your feed is now curated based on your behavior and preferences rather than just the people you follow. This is both a blessing and a challenge:
For New Creators: Your content has a chance to be seen even if you don’t have a big following.
For Established Creators: Your audience may not see your content unless it aligns with their current interests, which means re-engaging your followers is harder than ever.
Diversification of Platforms
There’s no one-size-fits-all platform anymore. TikTok, YouTube Shorts, Instagram Reels, LinkedIn, and even Facebook all serve different purposes. Success depends on understanding where your audience is and how to engage them on that specific platform.
The Right Mindset for New Creators
If you want to become a creator in 2025, you need to reset your mindset. It’s not about going viral or chasing monetization right away. It’s about building something meaningful and sustainable.
Focus on the “Why”
Ask yourself: Why do I want to create content?
Is it to help others?
Is it to share your expertise or inspire people?
Or are you chasing fame or quick money?
If your primary motivation is monetization, you’re setting yourself up for disappointment. Success comes from creating with purpose and passion—not just trying to make a quick buck.
Find Your Unique Voice
What’s the one topic you could talk about endlessly without getting bored? That’s your niche. It’s okay to experiment and explore, but your content should reflect your genuine passion and expertise. Authenticity matters more than ever in 2025.
How to Stand Out in a Crowded Space
Master the Platforms
You can’t succeed without understanding how each platform works. For example:
YouTube: Great for evergreen, searchable content. Ideal for educational creators.
TikTok and Reels: Perfect for short-form content and trends, but you need to stay relevant and creative.
LinkedIn: Best for B2B creators or professionals looking to network and position themselves as thought leaders.
Focus on 1–2 platforms to start, dominate those spaces, and then expand when you’re ready.
Embrace AI and Technology
AI tools like ChatGPT can be your brainstorming buddy, helping you generate ideas, write scripts, and optimize your content. If you’re just starting, AI can save you time and help you overcome creative blocks.
Create for Your Audience, Not Yourself
It’s easy to create content that makes you feel good, but your priority should be solving problems or entertaining your ideal audience. Ask yourself:
What value does this content provide?
Does it entertain, educate, or inspire?
The Reality of Monetization
One of the biggest misconceptions about being a creator is that it’s easy money. Let’s set the record straight:
Monetization Takes Time
You won’t earn from your first video or post. Building an audience, creating consistent content, and engaging with your community take months—sometimes years.
Revenue Streams
To monetize successfully, you’ll need multiple income streams, such as:
Brand collaborations (which are harder to secure than before).
Ad revenue from platforms like YouTube.
Selling digital products, courses, or memberships.
Do It for the Right Reasons
If your only goal is to make money, you’ll burn out quickly. Instead, focus on creating content you’re proud of. Monetization should be a byproduct of your hard work, not your primary motivator.
Key Advice for Aspiring Creators
Embrace Authenticity
Polished, overly curated content isn’t what people connect with anymore. Share your struggles, your learning process, and your real personality. Vulnerability builds trust and loyalty.
Be Consistent
Show up regularly. Whether it’s once a week or once a day, consistency builds familiarity and trust with your audience.
Experiment and Adapt
The creator landscape is constantly changing. What worked last year might not work now, so be willing to try new formats, trends, and tools.
Start Small and Scale Up
Begin with 1–2 platforms where your audience hangs out. Dominate those spaces, then expand to others once you’ve built a strong foundation.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a creator in 2025 isn’t impossible, but it requires a thoughtful, intentional approach. Success isn’t about followers or viral hits—it’s about building something that resonates with your audience and aligns with your purpose.
So, ask yourself: Why do I want to create? If the answer is to help, inspire, or connect with others, then you’re on the right track.