It’s been just over a year since I decided to become a travel vlogger. And here’s the hard truth:
It ain’t easy.
I really don’t know how some creators do it—making 6- or even 7-figure incomes in a few months, jet-setting while effortlessly pumping out polished content. I’m not being negative. I’m being honest. I am not them.
I didn’t hit my income goals. I didn’t go viral. But here’s the part I’m proud of: I’m still here. Still learning. Still filming. Still growing.
This isn’t a post about quitting. This is a story about pivoting.
Why I Chose This Path
What a lot of people don’t know is that I’m doing this part-time. My full-time job is being a mother to two children with special needs. I homeschool my youngest and help my older son with schoolwork. Every spare moment outside of that, I pour into this dream—learning, experimenting, filming, editing, researching, and showing up on camera even when I feel rundown.
I started because I wanted to explore the world through my lens and show other moms that it’s possible to chase big dreams—even when life is complicated.
The Reality of Year One
I invested in gear—cameras, lenses, drones, gimbals, phones—all for better quality. I squeezed filming into moments between naps, meals, and meltdowns. I often stressed over lighting or audio… while someone tugged at my shirt needing help. It was chaos, but it was also growth.
And trying to enjoy a destination while capturing it? That’s a balance I’m still learning.
What I’ve Learned
- There are so many moving parts—planning, gear, editing, posting, and staying present with family.
- Kids mimic everything—so I taught them when “the red light” means quiet time or space.
- Energy is limited—not every travel day needs to be a filming day.
- Money goes fast—especially when you don’t plan.
- Packing and appearance matter—how I look affects how I feel on camera.
So, Now What?
I’m not giving up. I’m just being smarter about it.
- Planning my trips and filming ahead—including scripts and outfits.
- Giving myself rest days during travel—because burnout kills creativity.
- Involving my son—he’s curious, helpful, and learning with me.
- Budgeting smarter—and exploring affiliate income + travel agent training.
- Showing up as my best self—not perfect, but present.
The Goal Ahead
I may not have hit six figures, but I’m aiming for something real: $1,000 in the next 3 months.
Still growing. Still vlogging. Still dreaming.
Thanks for being part of this journey.
— Sofia 🌍✨
