When Nine Years Feels Like Treading Water: Finding Your Way Forward in Creative Work

After nearly a decade in graphic design, feeling like you're barely keeping your head above water is exhausting. When hesitation holds you back, technology seems to be racing ahead, and you're scrambling for every opportunity, it's natural to wonder if it's time to call it quits.

This question was answered by Dr Erica Crome – Clinical Psychologist and Health Manager – who specialises in mental health and evidence-based wellbeing programs, alongside Andy Wright – Founder of Never Not Creative and CEO of Streamtime – who champions making the creative industry kinder and fairer.

Acknowledge This Is a Tough Decision

Erica reminds us that "if it wasn't [a tough decision] you would have made it already." There are obviously parts of your creative work that you love, but also elements that feel stressful or frustrating. This internal conflict is completely normal and shows you're taking the decision seriously.

The broader context matters too. As Andy notes, we've all been navigating pandemic fatigue, ongoing global challenges, and widespread disillusionment. Your feelings aren't happening in isolation.

Step Back and Look at the Big Picture

Before making any major career decisions, Erica suggests "stepping back and looking at what you want out of your life as a whole, and really looking at whether you're on the track to get there." Sometimes we get so focused on immediate frustrations that we lose sight of our deeper values and what genuinely makes us happy.

When something's not clicking, it's often a sign that you're not working consistently with your core values. This frustration can actually be valuable information pointing toward beneficial change.

Map Out Your Options Practically

Erica recommends "sketching out the pros and cons of both staying where you are and a change." Look honestly at:

• What you get from your current situation
• What it's costing you
• What you'd gain from leaving
• What that change would cost you

Consider which elements you love about creative work – perhaps the creativity or innovation – and whether these could transfer to a different environment where things might click better.

Check Your Expectations

It's worth reaching out to trusted people in your network to discuss whether your expectations are realistic. Erica points out that "sometimes we can get really frustrated about where we're at in our career if we're kind of putting too much of a load on ourselves or we're expecting too much of ourselves at any one point."

Find people who both challenge and support you to help you gain perspective on your situation.

Connect with Peer Support Through NNC Circles

Sometimes the most valuable insights come from others walking a similar path. Never Not Creative's Circles program connects creative professionals in small, supportive groups that meet twice monthly. These peer-to-peer sessions provide a safe space to share challenges, gain different perspectives, and realise you're not alone in your struggles.

In situations like yours, where you're questioning your entire career direction, hearing how others have navigated similar crossroads can be incredibly valuable. The program is free and designed specifically for people in creative industries who understand the unique pressures you're facing.

Learn more about NNC Circles and how to join

Moving Forward with Clarity

Nine years in any field represents significant investment and expertise. While the creative industry has undoubtedly changed, your experience and perspective have value. Whether you choose to pivot within the industry, take your creative skills elsewhere, or make a complete change, the key is making that decision from a place of clarity rather than exhaustion.

Remember, feeling stuck doesn't mean you're actually stuck. Sometimes the path forward becomes clearer once you've given yourself permission to explore all your options honestly.