SHORT FILMS: THE BANE OF MY EXISTENCE
I don't like watching most short films. I prefer the more complexities that feature length stories allow.
Almost every time I attempt to write a short film, one of two things always happens: either 1. I end up absolutely H-A-T-I-N-G it,.. even if it could arguably be just as good as most films accepted into festivals; or 2. I can't resist expanding it into a full length story and refuse to cut anything. Thus, I usually end up making SHORT STORIES, NOT traditional short films (that entail only a "moment in time"/episode of an interesting but not fleshed-out character).

But reality is not allowing me to make feature films since I can not convince enough cast and crew to commit to three or more weeks of a compact shooting schedule, nor can I afford to reimburse them - as most people understandably want compensation for their time and effort; nor would I feel right about even asking for extended free work.
However,... I HAVE to make content to prove to potential investors and cast & crew that I can make films!
On the other hand, I can not afford to not have a life all year as I save up $3k - $9k to make one film a year - which is still not enough to guarantee the cast and crew will commit to it.

THE PLAN:
1. Make a few short films (or SOME type of content) that I CAN make despite limited resources, yet they are to my satisfaction, memorable, and as close as possible to showcasing my signature style and abilities.
2. Use the content I create to build up a social media following.
3. Use crowd funding to make the projects that I WANT to make, the GOOD stuff!!
* Meanwhile, volunteer to help out any other filmmakers (especially anyone that helps me with MY projects) so I don't get cabin fever from not doing ANYTHING, and also using the opportunity to learn & grow as a filmmaker while creating contacts in this field.

I may not be able to pay much ($100/day min. for main roles), but I do insist that no one LOSES any money. Most of the time, 80 to 90% of the budget is to reimburse & per diem the cast & crew.