The truth is the industry has changed since that narrative. We don’t have the opportunity to visit endless museums to get inspired, spend a day typesetting a poster, get the paints out and experiment. The industry moves faster. I’m hesitant to suggest side projects, because if you’re truly burnt out, then it’s not the best idea. But the fact you’ve written in means you want to reignite your creativity and side projects without clients, budgets, time constraints are the best way to restoke the fire. Choose something you’re excited by. You don’t have to show anyone the result – make it just for you.
If you’re tired of the studio politics, freelancing is a great way to step out of the hamster wheel and focus back on the work. You’re removed from politics, wake up every day to a clear calendar, and get resourced properly onto projects. Purely on the tools. A chance to work across different studios, disciplines, clients – a real opportunity to discover what makes you tick again. It’s not for everybody, but there’s a reason that most people who go freelance don’t return to traditional roles.
Don’t worry about feeling disenfranchised right now. If I had a pound for every time someone told me they want to quit and work in a garden centre… It happens to us all. The most important advice I can give is if you need to take a break, make sure you do.