The question that gets asked by most YouTube creators for their channel is “How do I get monetized on YouTube?” It’s a valid question and not one easily solved, especially considering the ever changing aspect of the platform.
When I started my channel, Look At This Rock, back on November 13, 2023, I originally intended it to be a 30 day experiment. Little did I know I’d eventually get monetized, have a cult following, and as of publishing this blog post in 2026 that I’d have over 800 videos behind me.
Only an estimated 8-10% of YouTube channels are monetized. That means, while it is a challenge to get YouTube to pay you for creating content, it is NOT impossible. So join me as I give my Top 5 Tips on how to get Monetized on YouTube!
1. Have. Fun.
Seriously. This is the most important thing. YouTube is all about the long game and if you are not having fun creating your content then you will burn out quickly. My channel, Look At This Rock, is where I look at a new rock in every video. I travel to different parts of the world picking up rocks and looking at the geology of the land. It’s part Yes Theory adventure, part GeologyHub insight, and a sprinkle of Mark Rober curiosity and humor.
But It’s FUN to do these videos. That pushes me to be more creative and to still be doing it. As a bonus, your viewers will sense that fun and become more invested. Speaking of viewers….
2. Don’t Focus On The Numbers. Focus On The Community.
While the numbers are important as this is what will get your channel monetized, don’t focus on that. Focus instead on the community you are building because that’s where your numbers come from. Respond to every comment and give them a thumbs up. Be friendly. Viewers will subscribe if you’re authentic, real, and human.
3. Consistency Is Key
Be consistent but don’t forget to experiment. I originally was posting a new rock everyday on Look At This Rock and did that for over a year. I even put together a cool compilation video called “I looked at a Rock everyday for 1 year“. Every video had a similar format, length, style, and thumbnail. This really grew my subscriber count and played into the YouTube algorithm.
But I wasn’t afraid to experiment with video length, titles, descriptions, hashtags, and how often to post a new video. These were mini-experiments that would last about 2 weeks at a time and only when something wasn’t working any more. Don’t make big changes though. Make small, single changes and see what happens with the numbers. Find what works for you and change it when it doesn’t work anymore.
4. Stay On Topic
Pick a theme for your channel and stick with it. Find your niche and keep going until you run out of steam. I occasionally post memes like my accelerated learning video titled Right ear the bible (Canadian), Left ear Mozart (2x speed) and short films like Lost Mysterious Island on my channel, but 95% of my content is based on my theme of looking at rocks.
YouTube wants to promote you. It really does, honestly. But it can’t figure out how to do that if you keep changing subjects or chasing the next big internet trend. Create your lane and stay in it.
5. Do The Work
This is the most important thing. You have to put in the effort. Create new content at a healthy rate. Tell people about your channel. Research how to grow it. Experiment. Promote your YouTube channel on Reddit or social media. Help people find you. Put in the work.
Wrapping Up
While YouTube monetization is difficult it is by no means impossible. I was able to monetize my channel in just 1 year and 1 month. While I’m not Mr. Beast in terms of my subscriber count, I have a great community and I have a lot of fun!
If you enjoyed this article, be sure to subscribe to my YouTube Channel by clicking here. Every subscription means a lot to me and I appreciate it.
About the author
Jon Passow is an accomplished actor, voiceover artist, photographer, and YouTube creator based in London. He is passionate about science, nature, traveling and documents these on his YouTube channel “Look At This Rock“.