Moving to Greece from the UK was a significant turning point in my life. This beautiful country offers an idyllic backdrop for my lifestyle, but it also posed a considerable challenge when it came to finding work. As an unemployed stay-at-home dad in a foreign land, I had to think creatively about how to support my family. Today, I want to share how I make a living online through my passion for music, and how you can apply these principles to your own skills and interests.
Turning Passion into a Profession
I am a musician and composer. For many, this might seem like an unconventional path to financial stability, but with the advent of the internet, it has become more feasible than ever. I license my music for various media outlets, including TV, films, documentaries, and even YouTube channels. Every piece of music you hear on my vlogs is my own composition. This not only provides me with a sense of creative control but also allows me to monetize my work.
Licensing Music for Media
Music licensing is the primary way I earn a living. I create music tracks that other content creators, filmmakers, and media producers can use in their projects. This includes everything from background scores for TV shows and films to thematic music for documentaries and YouTube videos. Licensing music is different from selling it outright; it allows multiple people to use my music, thereby generating a continuous stream of income.
Using My Music in My Projects
As a bit of a control freak, I use my own music in all my videos. This dual approach of creating videos and composing music for them inspires me to constantly come up with new tracks. By using my music in my vlogs, I not only maintain a cohesive aesthetic but also promote my work to a broader audience.
The Daily Grind of a Content Creator
Creating videos and composing music are both integral parts of my daily routine. Even though it might not seem like a conventional job, it is a full-time commitment. My typical day involves brainstorming new music ideas, shooting videos, and editing them. It’s a busy schedule, but it’s one that I love.
Behind the Scenes: My Workspace
Unlike the picturesque blue skies and seas of Greece, my workspace is quite different. It’s a functional space where creativity takes the front seat. Whether it’s composing a new reggaeton track or editing a vlog, my workspace is the heart of my operations.
Endless Interruptions
Working from home comes with its own set of challenges, especially with family around. Endless interruptions are a part of my day, but they also add to the charm of working from home. My wife also works from home and manages most of the household responsibilities, allowing me to focus on my creative pursuits.
Finding Your Own Path
The principles of earning a living online can be applied to various fields, not just music. Whether you’re a photographer, a teacher, or have any other skill, the key is to find a way to monetize your passion. Here are a few steps to get you started:
- Identify Your Passion: Determine what you love doing and what comes naturally to you.
- Understand Your Market: Research how you can monetize your skill. For musicians, this might be licensing; for photographers, it could be selling prints or doing freelance work.
- Create and Promote: Start creating content and promote it through various channels. Use social media, blogs, or YouTube to reach a broader audience.
- Be Persistent: Success doesn’t come overnight. Be consistent and keep refining your craft.
Conclusion
Living in Greece and working online has given me the freedom to pursue my passion while supporting my family. It’s not always glamorous, but it’s fulfilling. If you’re interested in earning money online, regardless of your profession, the principles remain the same. Find what you love, figure out how to monetize it, and be relentless in your pursuit.
