Control, Diversification, and Staying Ahead of the Curve
Greeting!
As some of you may have noticed, we woke up this morning to find TikTok’s services down (for now).
Although I feel for the many creators who rely on the platform for some (or all) of their recurring income, it is crucial to take advantage of these moments to reiterate timeless truths that transcend the Platform du Jour, as this is more than a social media story—it’s a lesson in control, diversification, and staying ahead of the curve. Here are three key takeaways for anyone serious about financial independence, personal branding, or business growth:
1. Control Your Communication Channels
Imagine building a successful brand on TikTok, only to lose access overnight. That’s the reality for creators and businesses that rely on a single platform.
Tim Ferriss has long championed the importance of gathering email addresses as a direct line to your audience (I did this WAY too late in my journey, but how am I able to communicate with you all today?) Why? You own it. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube can change algorithms, restrict accounts, or disappear. But your email list is a permanent asset.
Action Step: Start building your list today if you have not already. If you’re not actively collecting emails, you’re leaving your audience in someone else’s hands.
2. Diversify Your Income Streams
The TikTok ban highlights how fragile a single revenue source can be. According to a 2024 survey by Oberlo, 49% of small businesses in the U.S. generate at least part of their revenue from social media platforms. Diversification isn’t just for your investment portfolio. It’s also for your income. Whether it’s adding consulting gigs, digital products, or affiliate partnerships, multiple streams of income shield you from disruption.
Fun Stat to Consider: The average millionaire has 7 income streams. How many do you have?
3. Protect Your Portfolio
The same principles apply to your financial assets. TikTok’s ban is a reminder that outside forces can change the rules overnight. Whether it’s social platforms or volatile markets, relying too heavily on any one asset class, industry, or platform is a recipe for instability. I am happy for any of you who love Nvidia or Crypto—-BUT, if those holdings represent more than 5-10% of your portfolio, all I ask is that you always consider the ramifications of a complete loss of value.
Quick Fact: During the 2008 financial crisis, portfolios diversified across stocks, bonds, and real estate saw significantly less decline than those that were highly concentrated in one asset class, sector, business, etc. (Morningstar data). The same logic applies to your digital and professional assets.
The Bottom Line:
Whether you’re a creator, an investor, or just someone looking to build a resilient life, the TikTok ban is a clear message: diversify, take control, and never rely on a single platform or income source.
Start small—collect emails, explore new income streams, and review your portfolio for overexposure. It’s your life; make sure YOU own it.
Too fitting that I’m putting finishing touches on the Podcast launch today! Hope to see you all there soon to keep building this community. For free. Always.
Tyler
