I don't care if you are a new affiliate or a global star, it's no doubt that the streaming life can take it's toll on both your body and your mind. It is also something that everyone forgets to prioritise. But remember one thing - you can get around broken computers, slow internet and dodgy tech. But the most important part of the stream can't be replaced - YOU!
OK, enough preach lol. What am I on about and what can you do about it?
Mental Health as a Streamer
Entertainer. Producer. Technician. Gamer. Marketeer.
If you were working on a TV show, you would be hiring teams of people to do all of the above tasks. It take's its toll, especially as most streamers have working and family lives as well.
It is important for you to take some you time - time away from the screen. Do a hobby, spend time with friends and family IN PERSON!
I like to go an read a book somewhere quiet, go out on my board or go for a run. But its about finding things that are real life outside of Twitch streaming. Twitch streaming might be the best job you ever had - it's a lot of fun. But it is a job - don't make it the only thing you live to do.
Physical Health as a Streamer
I know, I know. You're a bloody gamer and streamer. You're not in this to be an athlete! But sitting for hours and eating snacks, chugging the caffeine. It's not doing you any favours long term.
It's important to look after your health if you are going to keep streaming, so make sure you at least go for a walk and eat the odd healthy meal. I've been recently advised Frijj Fudge Brownie is not a healthy meal! Who knew?
Whilst on Stream
I have focussed on the stuff that happens off stream - but lets face it, we are on camera for a long time. It's what we live for, what we think about and there is a lot we need to consider.
Firstly, arseholes exist, and they really exist on streams and on games. Make sure you do not give them time, make sure you have mods ready to give them the boot. You WILL get criticism. But that's not on you. I once heard on a business podcast the phrase "how other people see you has nothing to do with you". That has really stuck with me - people will fat shame, thin shame, hate on your game play, hate on your setup, hate on the PS/Xbox/PC that you are playing on and many more things to boot.
It's going to happen, so don't take it to heart, it's got nothing to do with you, just boot and forget.
Also, it is ok to take breaks. You do not have to be on screen for every minute. Being refreshed means that you will perform better on camera. There are things you can do whilst on a break - I will write about this in another blog!
Finally, preparation is key - if you are doing a several hour stream, make sure you have drinks and food at hand ready.
If you want to find out about how you can have a better work/life balance as a streamer, without it taking over your life then take a look at how I help grow your channel whilst avoiding burnout.