In the wake of unexpected changes and uncertain career trajectories, finding solace and purpose can often feel daunting, especially for creative people like myself. For me, that feeling appeared when I found myself without revenue from my job as a video game developer —a profession I poured my heart and soul into. Luckily, I found refuge in an unexpected place: writing.
This newfound creative outlet became more than just a pastime; it became a lifeline—a space where I could reclaim control and explore topics beyond the confines of my previous job. It has provided me with a sense of freedom and fulfilment but also served as a catalyst for personal and professional growth in the face of uncertainty and change.
Having a creative project that I have complete control over has been a …game-changer! (apologies). Writing allows me the freedom to explore any topic that piques my interest, a luxury not afforded in many other pursuits. Whether I'm delving into personal reflections, exploring industry trends, or sharing insights from my experiences, the blank page offers endless possibilities.
This creative outlet serves as a welcome change of pace from my previous role. While I continue working on another game in my spare time, aiming for a publisher or funding, having this additional outlet has significantly reduced my stress levels. Instead of putting all my eggs in one basket, my days now consist of multiple pursuits.
I'm sharing my articles on LinkedIn, aiming to bolster my visibility and stand out from the crowd. Writing also gives a chance for my website blog to gain views which in turn may gain interest from publishers or investors. While it's too early to tell if these efforts will yield tangible opportunities, the process itself is inherently rewarding.
One of the most liberating aspects of writing is its quick turnaround. Spending a couple of hours each morning on crafting articles provides a clear start, middle, and end to a creative process. There's a sense of catharsis in finishing projects multiple times a week, a stark contrast to the long, uncertain nature of game development. Game development can sometimes feel like mountain climbing for months on end. There are no guarantees you reach the top, and sometimes you fall off halfway up. Sometimes, you’ll run out of time and still have a long way to go. Writing a 2 to 4 minute article never feels daunting. While I still wrestle with concerns about quality and judgement, those concerns are nothing compared to the uncertainties of the video game industry.
In conclusion, if you find yourself grappling with a recent layoff or uncertain about your next career move, I urge you to consider the transformative power of writing. Embrace the freedom to share your unique experiences and insights through articles. Even if your words only provide a fleeting distraction for someone else, they're worth the effort. Writing offers a sense of purpose and connection in an uncertain world, making it a valuable pursuit for anyone navigating change or seeking new opportunities. And if you stick at it, who knows where it may lead.
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