Creative jobs are like any other jobs, there will be challenges that you face that are unique to that position. Whether you are working in content, marketing, film, backstage theatre, there will be hurdles for you to jump over. But it’s all about how you face them. Let’s have a look through the most common ones we see in applicants and apprentices and give you some of our top tips.
The creative industry is competitive, and this can sometimes make you feel that you aren’t ‘good enough’ to be a part of it. It can make you feel that you are behind or don’t belong. But no matter what you bring to the table it’s both important and necessary. We need diversity to make the industry thrive fully. If you are passionate, you’re a part of it!
Talk to other creatives too, even the big names that inspire you can experience imposter syndrome too! Separate your feelings from fact. Easier said than done, but understanding the negative ways you think about your work isn’t reality.
We all strive to be the best we can be, but when you try to aim for perfection it can actually start setting you back. When it comes to working in the industry, there are deadlines, a lot of them, not only don’t you have the time to work on the tiny details, it’s also not necessary. Ok, sometimes it can be, but aiming for absolute perfection all the time is unrealistic. With creativity, you will have feedback from a variety of people, some liking it, some not, that’s how it goes. So, stressing over the small stuff can feel like a waste of time to you and a lot of strain on your mental wellbeing.
If you are working on the same project for a long time, you can get caught up in the small details making change after change. It’s time to step back, let your mind focus on something else for a while and come back with a new perspective. Pomodoro timers are great to stop this cycle.
For a lot of us, we can be our own worst enemy. Judging what we create, looking at all the things we have done ‘wrong’ or would want to change. But sometimes this can become too harsh. There is working on mistakes to make you grow as an individual and then there’s being over negative and critical of everything you do. It’s all about finding that balance.
Look back at previous work you have done and see how far you have come since day one. You will see the progression you have made, all the learning leads you to become a better creative.
Did you know over 50% of creatives experience burnout from work. When you are coming up with new ideas every day, it can burn you out easily if you don’t spot the signs of exhaustion. This can look slightly different for each individual. Common signs can be self-doubt, loss of passion, procrastination, and lack of inspiration.
It’s time to take a break. Just as you would if you are tired physically, you rest. It’s the same. Stop creating, let your brain settle, you will come back stronger, with bigger and better ideas.
Looking at other pieces for inspiration is great for researching and developing, but comparing your work to theirs can negatively impact your self-esteem if you’re not careful.
Look at how it inspires you to create your own work. Take references, don’t recreate completely. Find key points that drive you and build your own masterpiece, this helps reframe your thought process. Also take note of your own success, each journey is unique and individual!
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