As of a few years ago, short-form media has taken the internet by storm. This is especially true with the rise of an app called TikTok. I swear, ever since I downloaded this app, it’s almost impossible not to waste hours on it endlessly scrolling. However, as much as TikTok is a fun distraction, I find it hard to connect with content creators since I’m only watching them for a maximum of sixty seconds. This is why I found myself going back to dear old YouTube. For the last few months, I’ve been binging videos from my favorite YouTubers, and let me tell you, it’s a way better experience than scrolling on TikTok for two hours. There’s something about sitting down and watching a YouTube video that’s better than having an endless stream of content popping up every minute. So, if you want to take a break from the impulsive scrolling, here are some YouTubers that I recommend you go and watch.
1) AVA JULES
First on the list is Ava Jules. She is a lifestyle influencer and her style of content is very geared towards self-betterment and being kind to yourself. She also talks about recently going through a breakup (girl, same) and how she has found herself since then. Whenever I watch Ava’s videos, I know I’m about to enter a relaxing 15 minutes, which can be so necessary in college. She has such a positive and rational way of seeing life that watching her content helps me settle myself and adopt that mindset. Other than watching her YouTube channel, I also listen to her podcast, which is also calming and reflective. So, if you find yourself wanting a relaxing distraction, go ahead and play one of her videos.
2) KENNEDY WALSH
When I think of the phrase “comfort YouTuber,” Kennedy is the first person that comes to mind. If I could describe her content in one word, it would be that: comforting. Kennedy has been super open about learning to be alone and about romanticizing the mundane things in life. I think we all go through phases where we might feel more alone than most, and whenever I catch myself feeling like this, Kennedy’s videos always remind me that spending time with yourself is healthy and necessary. She’s also very creative and showcases that by dressing up as different characters, painting, and even acting in some of her videos. She also comes up with such original video ideas, which are very refreshing and sometimes hard to find on social media.
3) MAI PHAM
Mai Pham is the most recent influencer on this list that I have started watching, but let me tell you, after one video, I was hooked. This girl has such a contagious positive energy about her that doesn’t seem fake or performative. She truly is the definition of being yourself on the Internet and honestly, she’s killing it. Every video I watch of hers is a breath of fresh air, and she is also hilarious. Something I really appreciate about her content is that she doesn’t try to minimize how much PR she gets or how successful she is. Instead, she lets the viewer into that part of her life and doesn’t shy away from showing how extravagant being an influencer can be. On social media, it’s very common for influencers to minimize their efforts for the sake of being relatable, but that just comes across as disingenuous and fake. Mai is the complete opposite of that, and her videos honestly feel like you’re on FaceTime with your best friend.
4) TRIN LOvell
I don’t know about you, but I’m that person who loves watching people react to things I like. If this sounds like you, then Trin Lovell is definitely someone you should watch. She’s a commentary YouTuber, so she reacts to shows and movies, but she does it in a way that isn’t boring. I’m a little nitpicky with commentary channels because sometimes they can feel like I’m watching a video essay, but Trin’s commentary is so funny yet insightful. Her videos feel like you’re watching a show with your best friend, but you randomly take pauses to analyze what’s going on. She truly is the perfect balance of a commentary and reaction channel.
5) AVREY OVARD
The last YouTuber I will be talking about is Avrey Ovard, who is the Internet definition of “aesthetic.” Her videos have this aura and vibe about them that feels as if you’re scrolling through Pinterest. One thing I love about her is how honest she is about her mental health struggles and how she doesn’t shy away from talking about her feelings. These are my favorite videos of hers to watch because it’s so common to see influencers having these seemingly perfect lives, that it just reminds you that we all have our own battles. The way she documents herself going through ruts and down periods is very relatable and also reassuring. So, if you’re ever having a period where you feel down and not yourself, she is a great influencer to look up to.
Hopefully, I’ve influenced you to watch at least one of these YouTubers and take a break from the endless videos on your For You Page. The word “influencer” gets thrown around a lot these days, but I truly believe that these girls are deserving of the term. They are all so genuine and overall just give out positive vibes, which is something the Internet desperately needs more of.