Here are some things I have learnt while navigating the world of independent adult content creation. Subject to change…
1. Thou shalt always get cash first.
Do not deliver services without full payment first. Always get paid, then do the work. This industry is notorious for people who will try to get something for nothing. If someone will not pay upfront, keep on walking. I have heard every excuse in the book from potential clients and they are just that… baseless excuses.
2. Thou shalt be true to oneself.
It is tempting to look at what others are doing and try to emulate it or worse, get down on yourself because you are not like them. Personality is a huge part of this industry, and being the unique and amazing human you are will attract genuine fans your way. Sure, we can mould ourselves to fit whatever the mainstream fad is at the time, but for longevity, it is about building a brand which is consistent and true to yourself.
3. Thou shalt adopt a schedule and abide by it.
Consistent content creation is real work and real work takes planning. How much content are you planning on releasing and when? Build a schedule around this. Have dedicated time to work and dedicated time to rest. It will reduce your stress, take the pressure off of you and make sure you remain consistent.
4. Thou shalt always get high one’s own supply.
As opposed to Biggie’s commandments, you need to be able to get high on your work. You need to love what you produce. Grow to love your body and all its flaws. Accept your personality and quirks. If I create something and it doesn’t excite me, I can guarantee it will not excite my clients.
5. Thou shalt establish boundaries.
Boundaries are important, in every part of your life. Become an expert at establishing them and maintaining them. If it is your scheduled day off, don’t work and don’t let disrespectful people come in on your downtime. If you only accept a certain payment method, don’t change just because of a badgering client. If there are services you are not comfortable providing, don’t let anyone bullying you into providing them. I could do a whole blog on my experience with boundaries, and maybe I will…
6. Thou shalt make time for breaks.
This is a part of establishing a schedule. This industry is hard work and quarantining time to rest will serve you in the long run. It is mentally and emotionally not healthy to work 24/7, 365 days of the year. Be kind to yourself and schedule in breaks.
7. Thou shalt find one’s tribe.
Finding people who support you and what you do is vital. It is hard to find people in our “real lives” who understand the work we do. It is an incredibly isolating industry at times and it doesn’t need to be. Gather people around you to be your cheer squad and encouragement, especially when things get rough. Reach out to people who are likeminded and develop connections. By lifting others up, you will also be supported and develop your business.
8. Thou shalt not start drama and when one senses it, thou shalt avoid it.
It is very tempting to get involved in petty drama, including worrying about someone stealing clients, or making inappropriate clients or not being 100% honest. It is in your best interests not to concern yourself with this. Getting involved with someone else’s drama or starting it yourself is a good way to get branded as a troublemaker and unprofessional. Support your colleagues but avoid those who engage in drama. It will not serve you in the long run and is a huge waste of time in the here and now. Worry about you and your business, not the actual or perceived bad behaviour of others.
9. Thou shalt persist like one’s life depends on it.
Those who succeed and have longevity in this industry are those that are committed and keep moving forward. We all have bad days, weeks, months. We all have mediocre clients or hate-spewing trolls. We all have times we think “why the hell am I still doing this?” The key is to know that these times pass. The only way for things to get better is to hang in there. I am not saying you have to do this till the day you die; but think long and hard before deciding to quit. Take a break before making any major decisions.
10. Thou shalt know one’s business.
People think anyone can make some sexy content and make a buck or three. Wrong. There is way more to it than that. You probably know this by now, but I cannot stress it enough. Always keep open. Always try to learn more. Listen and seek advice from others. Really get knowledgeable on how platforms work, marketing, branding and production of content. It will make a huge difference not only to how you feel about the business, but your success depends upon it.
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