Acting Industry's Harsh Realities Led Garima Goel To Become Content Creator & She Ain't Complaining

When pursuing your passion feels like an uphill battle, it's easy to lose hope. But Garima Goel, a well-known content creator, turned her setbacks into opportunities. When her acting career didn't take off as she hoped, she shifted to content creation, and now she's popular for it.

In a conversation with SheThePeople, Garima Goel shared her journey from old Delhi, through her media career, her attempts at acting, and the life-changing switch to content creation. She shows how to turn life's lemons into a refreshing lemon mojito.

She began her journey in the world of media and entertainment over 15 years ago, with a background in mass communications from Delhi University. "I happened upon a mass communications course, took the entrance exam on a whim, and surprisingly got in," she recalls. Growing up in Old Delhi with traditional parents, Garima was initially steered towards journalism as a safer alternative to her dream of being in front of the camera. 

Beginnings in Media and Entertainment

"My first job at Star News under Mr. Uday Shankar was a turning point. I went from trainee reporter to anchor, hosting 'Khabar Filmi Hai,' the industry’s first primetime entertainment show," Garima shares. This opportunity opened doors for her at Times of India, Zoom TV, and Sahara Group. 

One of the pivotal moments in Garima's journalism career was pioneering the paparazzi culture in India. "At Zoom TV, I started sending camera crews to airports to capture candid moments of celebrities. This was back in 2008, long before paparazzi culture became mainstream in India," she says. 

Despite her success, Garima's passion for acting never waned. She eventually left her corporate job to pursue acting, training under the renowned Barry John. However, the "harsh realities of the acting industry" led to a period of depression for Garima. "With my therapist's support, I turned to content creation as a therapeutic outlet and launched 'Garima’s Good Life' on YouTube in May 2018," she explains.

Today, with nearly seven million followers, Garima proudly calls herself a creative entrepreneur, working with top brands and becoming the brand ambassador for a camera company in the vlogging segment.

Acting To Content Creation

Garima's content creation journey has not been without its challenges. "Every content creator’s journey is unique, and mine has been about embracing authenticity," she emphasises. 

The greatest compliment I receive from my followers is that I’m the same in person as I am on camera. This authenticity has been my biggest strength.

Balancing her role as a content creator with supporting aspiring actors is something Garima is passionate about. "I created a 50-episode series called 'How to Become an Actor,' sharing insights and guidance from my experiences," she shares. This series has now been turned into a podcast to provide even more detailed advice and support for those looking to break into acting.

Advice For Aspiring Content Creators

Garima has also faced social stigmas and challenges to her self-esteem. "As a lifelong feminist, I’ve faced numerous challenges in a patriarchal society. Over time, I’ve learned to assert myself without hesitation. Today, I’m proud to say I’ve bought my own luxury car and apartment in Mumbai, all without seeking validation from any male figures."

For aspiring content creators, Garima's advice is to be authentic and true to oneself. "Virality is no longer the goal; instead, focus on building a niche and community around your content," she advises.

People watch content to be educated, informed, or entertained. Ensure your content adds value to your audience’s lives.

Lastly, she advised people to embrace a trial-and-error approach, stay adaptable, and keep refining their strategies to succeed in this dynamic field.