Focus on the engine: a consistent content system, an honest funnel that brings new people in, pricing and offers that convert, and the retention rituals that keep subscribers month after month. Above all, develop your messaging and sales skill — for many creators the DM is where most income is actually made.
You can start measuring now, lightly, to see what is working — but deep optimization, paid promotion, and hiring belong to the advanced stage. Master the organic engine first.