Career in Crisis
Photograph by Tess Ava Horwitz, on a trip to Melbourne
Let’s talk about those pivotal moments in our careers—the instances that redefine our paths and force us to reassess our direction. In the film industry, where I’ve spent nearly a decade, these moments can feel chaotic and isolating, especially when the creative journey doesn’t align with our emotional and physical well-being.
As I’ve navigated this landscape, I’ve encountered multiple times when I realized my career wasn’t heading toward a place that would sustain me. The investment of time, creativity, and financial resources in a field I started pursuing at age 13 has led to moments of disillusionment. It became clear that the aspirations I had built over the years might not fulfil me in the way I had hoped.
The Crisis of Direction
These moments often feel like a crisis. You’re left questioning what you’ve been doing, where you want to go, and what truly matters. This reflection is amplified when faced with personal loss, as I experienced after the death of my mother. That loss pushed me to rethink my priorities and what fulfilment looks like in both my career and personal life.
I’ve spoken to many women in the industry who share this struggle. The dilemma often revolves around the choice to fully dedicate oneself to a demanding career or to step back during a crucial phase, perhaps to start a family. The fear of sacrificing a creative career that may or may not flourish can be daunting, especially when considering the decades of effort already invested.
Redefining Success
Success is a deeply personal concept, and I’ve come to realise that my previous aspirations no longer resonate with me. I find myself carving out a balance for life over work opportunities more than ever—the joy of spending time in nature, with loved ones, and with fellow creatives who inspire and challenge me. The traditional markers of success I once chased seem increasingly hollow compared to the richness of a life well-lived.
The current climate of the industry complicates this further. The long hours, high stress, and physical demands often make it feel impossible to build a family while pursuing a successful career. Many women face this same predicament, grappling with the fear that the environment simply isn’t conducive to the lives they want to lead.
A hopeful Outlook
Yet, amidst these challenges, I see a glimmer of hope. Perhaps the aspirations I’ve held onto don’t fit within the current industry framework. Maybe it’s time to carve out a new identity for myself as a production designer or creative director—one that aligns with my values and supports a more balanced lifestyle.
I’m committed to fostering a community of like-minded creatives who share similar values. This journey might take unexpected paths, but it’s essential to remain open to new possibilities that align with what I truly want from my career.
If you are also experiencing a moment or realisation about your chosen career path that doesn’t seem to align with the new direction for your life. I would love to read about it in the comments below or reach out to my email. I encourage you to reach out and have those conversations. Discuss the realities of the film industry, support one another, and seek out those who value respect and collaboration. Together, we can navigate this complex landscape and redefine what success means for us.