5 Years of Streaming: What I've Learned and What You Should Know
Streaming is an exciting, ever-evolving space, but after five years in the game, I’ve learned a few hard truths and valuable lessons. Whether you're just starting or looking to refine your approach, these insights will help you navigate the world of streaming.
1. Choose Your Content Wisely
It’s tempting to jump into the latest trending game or follow what the biggest streamers are doing, but that’s not always the best strategy. Play a game or engage in content you genuinely enjoy. Why? Because passion is contagious. However, be mindful of the audience size for that content on Twitch.
If a game has too few viewers, it will be tough to grow.
If a game is oversaturated, your stream may get buried beneath thousands of others.
Find the sweet spot—use Twitch tracker sites to analyze the most viewed games over the past 30-90 days and choose something you love that also has a solid audience.
2. Have Fun—Seriously
If you’re not enjoying yourself, why should your viewers? Whether you're gaming, making music, creating art, or just chatting, your enthusiasm is what draws people in. Two things to keep in mind:
If no one is watching, at least you’re still doing something you love.
If you’re genuinely engaged, people will naturally want to stick around.
3. Engage with Your Chat
Your chat is the heart of your community. Whether you have three viewers or three hundred, take the time to acknowledge them. A simple “Hey [username], welcome in!” can make all the difference. People come to Twitch not just to watch, but to connect. Share your thoughts on the game you’re playing, your art techniques, or just what’s going on in your day.
4. Be Yourself—Not a Copy of Someone Else
Trying to mimic top streamers by using their catchphrases, alerts, or style won’t make you stand out—it’ll just make you blend in. What makes your stream unique is YOU.
Develop your own intro and outro.
Show off your personality.
Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own groove.
5. Don’t Feed the Trolls
Unfortunately, trolls are part of the streaming landscape. They might target your appearance, your skills, or anything else to get a reaction. The key? Don’t engage.
Twitch provides great moderation tools:
Your stream is your space—keep it safe and positive. The viewers who truly support you will always treat you with kindness and respect.
6. Be Realistic About Money
Let’s be clear: streaming won’t make you rich in 2025. During the pandemic, many streamers saw massive growth and revenue spikes, but that was an anomaly. Disposable income and ad revenue have decreased significantly.
If you're streaming solely to make money, you’ll likely be disappointed. Instead, do it for fun, for the connections, and for the experience. If you happen to make some money along the way? Great! But don’t bank on it replacing your job.
Streaming is a journey, and like any journey, it comes with highs and lows. Stay authentic, engage with your audience, and most importantly—enjoy the process. Success, whether measured in followers, friendships, or financial gains, comes from consistency, passion, and patience. Happy streaming you got this!