Popular Iranian-American stand-up comedian and actor Max Amini told an audience of digital influencers that the secret to long-term viral success lies in mastering a niche before attempting to reach the masses.
Speaking at the 1 Billion Followers Summit, Amini explained that while high viewership is a necessary goal for any professional, the pressure to maintain those numbers often leads to creator burnout, a state of emotional and physical exhaustion caused by the relentless demands of content production.
Amini warned that a creator’s mental health is frequently at risk when they become a slave to the numbers. He noted that while metrics are essential for growth, they should never be allowed to own the creator’s identity.
Instead, he suggested that creators should view data as a tool to be managed, emphasizing that the focus must remain on the quality of the work rather than the immediate gratification of a high view count.
To achieve viral reach, Amini advised creators to start small. He shared that his own career began by performing for a niche consisting of his immediate family and the Iranian community.
By serving a specific group first, a creator builds a loyal foundation that the platform’s algorithm eventually recognizes and promotes to a global audience.
The comedian also addressed the emotional toll of the “perfectionist” mindset, which he identified as a primary cause of burnout among aspiring influencers.
He urged creators to trust their subconscious and let go of the fear of what others think, especially when improvising or trying new content formats.
According to Amini, the insecurity of not being “perfect” often acts as a barrier that prevents a creator’s authentic personality from shining through to their followers.
Amini highlighted that a shift in perspective, from making content about oneself to making content that helps others, is a powerful remedy for exhaustion.
He claimed that when a creator focuses on solving a problem or providing joy to their audience, the stress of chasing likes often diminishes.
This service-oriented approach not only improves the creator’s mental state but also naturally leads to the engagement and comments they desire.
With over 1.5 million subscribers on YouTube and a massive global following, Amini has successfully navigated the transition from a local performer to an international star.
He maintains a rigorous touring schedule across India, the Middle East, and North America by adhering to his philosophy of “intention over attention.”
By prioritizing a positive connection with his audience, he has managed to scale his brand without succumbing to the typical pressures of the fast-paced digital economy.
