How YouTube Helped Me Quit My Job
In 2012, I took a leap of faith that completely changed my life. My wife and I were both working full time jobs, me at T-Mobile and her at the corporate office of JCPenney in Plano, Texas. We were raising kids, working hard and dreaming of a life where we could work for ourselves. Today, we are both self-employed, enjoying a life of freedom and it’s all because of YouTube.
The Journey Begins
Back in either 2010 or 2011, the idea of making money online was gaining traction. Social media was exploding and platforms like YouTube were becoming powerful tools for content creators. At the time, my wife and I were dabbling in network marketing and small side hustles, but never made any significant income.
Then, I discovered a community teaching people how to market online and one piece of advice kept coming up: make videos and upload them to YouTube. Initially, I resisted. I didn’t want to put myself out there, but the evidence was undeniable, those who embraced videos were achieving incredible results.
The Turning Point
In 2011, I came across someone who was make $3,000 – $5,000 a week by simply documenting his journey on YouTube. His videos weren’t flashy, they were raw, authentic and straightforward. He wasn’t a professional filmmaker, but his authenticity resonated with his audience.
This was a lightbulb moment for me. I realized that by sharing my own experiences, I could build trust, establish authority and generate sales – all through YouTube. So, I made my first video.
My First Cringe Video
My first video was rough. I call it my “cringe video.” It was shaky, unscripted and far from perfect. In fact, I kicked the tripod that camera was sitting on. But, I uploaded it anyway. To my surprise, it worked. People started watching and soon I received my first sale from someone who found me on YouTube.
For me, that sale wasn’t just about the money. It was validation that YouTube could work. I started creating more videos, sharing my journey and providing value to my audience. Within a few month, the results started to snowball.
From Part-Time to Full-Time Income
At first, I was making a few hundred dollars a week, nothing life changing. But as I continued to upload videos and refine my message, our income grew. Eventually, I was making more from YouTube than from my full-time-job.
Then in September 2012, after months of consistent results, my wife and I decided to take the leap. We both quit our jobs and went all in on our online business. It was scary, but it was the best decision we ever made.
The Power of YouTube
YouTube didn’t just help us make money, it gave us exposure, credibility and a platform to share our story. By creating authentic content and connecting with with viewers, we built a community that supported our growth.
Even today, YouTube remains a cornerstone of our business. It’s a platform that rewards authenticity, consistency and creativity. You don’t need fancy equipment or perfect videos to succeed, just a willingness to start and keep going.
Lessons for Aspiring Creators
- Start with What You Have: Use your phone to create videos. You don’t need expensive gear to get started.
- Be Consistent: Upload regularly, even if your videos aren’t perfect. Progress comes with practice.
- Embrace Your Authenticity: People connect with real stories, not polished perfection.
- Don’t Overthink It: Your first videos will be rough and that’s okay. Just hit record and start sharing.
Why You Should Start Now
Today, there are more opportunities than ever to make money online. But, YouTube remains unmatched for its ability to build lasting relationships and create long-term success. If you have a message, a skill or a story to share, YouTube is the perfect platform to reach millions of people.
We’re proof that it’s possible. From a shaky first video to a life of freedom, YouTube helped me to quit my job and has changed everything for me and my family. It can do the same for you.
So, what are you waiting for? Hit that record button, share your story and start your journey toward freedom today.
