Everywhere you turn—WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, creators emphasize the importance of finding your niche. Over time, we’ve conditioned ourselves to believe that niching down is the golden ticket to success.

But what if I told you that the answer isn’t so clear-cut? That it’s both yes and no?

Niching down can be incredibly effective. It helps you stand out online, build a thriving community, and establish authority in a specific area. For those aiming to create a one-to-many business model, it’s a smart strategy.

What if I tell you that niching down is not for you {yet!}?

However, as a creative who is still exploring your passions and trying to understand your audience, niching down might not be the right move, at least not yet. Starting out as a creative can be tricky. If you niche down too early, you might limit your growth and miss out on discovering what truly resonates with you. Many successful creatives began their journeys in one area and evolved over time:

• Issa Rae started with the YouTube series Awkward Black Girl and is now an award-winning actress, writer, and producer.

• Elaine Welteroth began as a beauty and fashion editor at Teen Vogue and has since become an author and media personality.

• Petra Collins gained recognition as a Tumblr-era photographer and now directs major fashion campaigns.

• Shantell Martin started as a video jockey and has become a renowned visual artist and philosopher.

These examples show that exploration can lead to unexpected and fulfilling paths.

What Should You Do While Figuring Out Your Niche?

1. Write Down Your Passions: Identify what you love doing. This self-awareness is the first step in discovering your niche.

2. Recognize the Skills Behind Your Passions: Do you enjoy writing or creating content? Seek opportunities to gain experience, such as internships or freelance gigs {you can assist friends and family}. Experience will help you build confidence and clarity.

3. Be Consistent: Consistency allows you to gather data on what works and what doesn’t. It’s through this process that you’ll start to see patterns and preferences emerge. I didn’t tell you earlier but I started off as a social media manager writing content for product businesses. Then I transitioned into writing content for visionary leaders. Now, I am writing blogs helping creatives . Don’t judge me!

In this phase, you are experimenting including me.

4. Track Your Failures and Wins: Reflect on your experiences. How many clients have given positive feedback? What projects brought you the most satisfaction?

5. Build Authority: After step 1-4, begin to build authority.  Gain experience, and start sharing your journey. Develop a personal brand that reflects your evolving interests and skills.

Remember, it’s okay not to have everything figured out from the start. Allow yourself the freedom to explore, experiment, and evolve. Your niche will become clearer over time, guided by your experiences and growth.

Dear creative, stay inspired. Start where you are, use what you have, and do what you can.

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