Lessons from Squid Game for the Creative Journey

Navigating the creative industry can sometimes feel like playing the high-stakes games in Squid Game. The challenges may not involve life or death, but they do test your patience, strategy, and determination. Here’s how the iconic games from the series mirror the journey and what we can all take away from them:

1. Red Light, Green Light

This game wasn’t just about speed—it was about knowing when to act and when to pause. Rushing mindlessly brought instant failure.

Similarly, in the creative field, rushing without strategy often leads to burnout or subpar results. Pausing to plan or reevaluate is not a setback—it’s part of the process.

Lesson: Thoughtful action outweighs mindless effort.

2. The Honeycomb Game

Carving intricate shapes out of delicate candy required immense precision and patience. The smallest mistake shattered the effort.

In creative work, attention to detail—whether crafting a viral post, designing an app, or curating a presentation—is vital. Even under pressure, patience often leads to breakthroughs.

Lesson: Precision and perseverance are your greatest tools.

3. Tug-of-War

A weaker team overcame the odds by working together and strategizing. The key wasn’t strength but collaboration.

The creative world is no different. Working in isolation may feel noble, but collaboration often produces the most innovative ideas.

Lesson: Success is a team effort, not a solo sprint.

4. The Marbles Game

This heartbreaking challenge forced participants to choose between survival and loyalty. Betrayal had a heavy cost.

In the creative journey, there’s often pressure to compete and outshine others. However, staying true to your values and nurturing relationships is what ensures lasting success.

Lesson: Integrity and empathy are more valuable than short-term wins.

5. The Glass Bridge

Crossing fragile glass panels was a game of risk. Each step required a balance of calculation and faith.

Every decision in creative work—whether pitching bold ideas or exploring uncharted fields—feels like stepping onto that glass bridge. While risk is unavoidable, calculated risks lead to greater rewards.

Lesson: Leap with caution, but don’t fear the fall.

What Squid Game Teaches Us About the Creative Industry

Squid Game isn’t just about survival; it’s about navigating challenges with adaptability, teamwork, and integrity. The creative journey is no different.

From the precision of the honeycomb game to the collaboration of tug-of-war, the show reminds us that success isn’t just about talent or resources—it’s about perseverance, strategy, and staying true to ourselves.

Would you survive the creative industry's version of Squid Game? The lessons are clear: work smart, value connections, and always play fair.