Here's how you can navigate the ups and downs of the film industry with resilience.

As a filmmaker, your reputation hinges on work ethics and quality. Always seek feedback post-project; it signals growth-intent. Your dedication to producing excellent work, coupled with sincerity, resonates with peers more than mere business savvy. Beyond work, casual chats over drinks can strengthen bonds, ignite creativity, and foster lasting collaborations. Trust with today's team, potentially tomorrow's project partners, is vital. Navigating this intricate balance between work and social connection is the real triumph in our industry.

Experience and creativity outshine formal education in our industry. Yes, keeping pace with trends through workshops, and courses is essential. Yet, I'd pick an experienced producer with an impactful portfolio over someone armed with multiple advanced degrees any day. Your real-world proficiency–how you navigate on-set challenges and your body of work–trumps theoretical knowledge in courses. Remember, our industry primarily values resourcefulness and inventive solutions. Hands-on experience reigns supreme, making you adaptable and resilient. Let your work speak!

Here's a piece of advice I've learned from my time in the industry: everything usually takes twice as long as you anticipate. But don't let it curb your enthusiasm. Keep your focus steady, for even with the time stretch, it all falls into place eventually.

I agree with all of the above. That being said, i also think saying NO when you feel you are being undervalued, underpaid or overworked. Saying No is the ultimate self care response. If something doesn’t feel right, smell right - trust your instincts. But always recuse yourself with clarity and grace.

Balance is the key in this highly demanding industry. Yes, your work forms part of your identity, but you are more than just your profession. In the process of honing skills, don't forget to carve time for things that make 'you' beyond work. Focus on building a life you love around the work. Find joy in your hobbies, interests, and cultivating diverse facets of your life. Happiness often sprouts from these non-work sources, fostering a wholesome lifestyle. Besides, you might be surprised to find that connecting with people over shared interests can be refreshing and fulfilling. A richer, fuller life experience ensures the energy and mental clarity to ride the industry's ups and downs.

Versatility is your secret weapon in this ever-changing industry. During my career, I've transitioned through various roles - photographer, retoucher, camera operator, producer, to project manager. However, my journey ultimately led me to specialise in post-production, focusing not just on editing, but also areas like colour, sound, and many others. Having these varied skills broadens your opportunities, making you resilient and ever-ready. Quite often, it's the unexpected skills, like the psychological insight I applied in my photography days, that add a unique dimension to your work. So, even while specialising, remain versatile. Embrace the broad-ranging skills; they're interconnected in ways more than one.