Yessss I feel ya! It’s an interesting dynamic because I feel like I’m so excited to do things and learn. Like I actually love doing banner ads knowing someone will see what I’m creating and it’s going out into the world. We as an industry have so much influence over society and behaviors that I enjoy always seeing the bigger picture of smaller things and how they connect to all the other pieces. That’s why I don’t get why people get so upset about little things like open floor seating, etc. It probably is because I’m young naive and haven’t experienced the politics of everything yet. I hope I don’t become one of those people persistent to complain

I think what SAD2 said is on point. I think everyone is so jaded and depressed because they get filled with illusions that advertising is a work of art (this is for everyone in the agency) and then it gets destroyed by clients or other factors. It like if your chipping away at your life because of the amount of investment you put into it. You seek to get personal validation from your job and that’s what causes everyone to be so meh.

It’s a job, look for fulfillment outside of it with friends, family, partner or hobbies. Enjoy the job you do but it isn’t the most important thing.

Big time. Makes me feel naive and stupid for being so enthusiastic.

Damn. This sucks to see.

I promise folks who love this industry and those who know how lucky we are to be in it do exist. You'll find them.

Big tip: your mentor can be anyone from any department. Mine is 2 years older and an account guy. He's done more for my career than any CD.

Yeah. But it was to be expected. Just annoyed that no one cares about actually developing talent anymore and just want cogs in the machine. This is why creatives burn out

@S2 it’s only the state of the industry because people make it that way. I’m not even junior and I’m sick of how jaded everyone is. People spend more time complaining than actually thinking or doing the work. In which case we should all be happy because we are getting paid to complain.

I’m with SC1. There are some of us out there who still think there is fun to be had and good work to be made. Just give off those vibes and you’ll find someone who inspires you.

dont feel disappointed - your lack of antipathy proves you are the future of this industry.

you shouldnt let the past convince you to doubt yourselves.

In my 20 years I know this much is true - Our work is a fine balance between holy shit this is awesome and holy shit this sucks. It’s what keeps us going honestly. Because when it’s awesome it is pretty awesome. We might not be saving lives, but sometimes we do. And it’s definitely not just about making ads.

I agree. I wish we weren’t all collectively less whiny and jaded.

That said, I get why this happens, we work wayyy to much and invest ourselves way too much in ADVERTISING. We make ads y’all. It’s really not that deep. Like, even we hate ads... on TV, Hulu, YouTube, muddying up city skylines, we call artists sell outs when they take endorsement money...

Yeah, I get why people are jaded.

Think about all of the other jobs you could be doing. You made it. You’re white collar.

Don’t get me wrong—I hate making ads. But I hate it a whole lot less than cleaning bathrooms.

Look. This is a HARD industry. It pays great once you have a few years under your belt and you don’t have to have an advanced degree. The “always on” world of marketing means long hours and high expectations. And sometimes we work with entitled assholes. So, we need a place to vent. And boy do we vent. That’s what you are observing. But, there are beautiful corners still. And some of the most interesting , smart and dynamic people work here. So, take a deep breath. It’s gonna suck some. It’s gonna inspire you a lot. And you will learn. Keep your eye on those you admire and be picky about the roles you take on.

Yes and no JS1. People too get too connected and emotional about the work, but you don’t have to. Were in the business of helping businesses communicate to the world and sell. Sometimes it’s not a work of art. Sometimes it is. When it is, it’s great. When it’s not, do the work and move on. Half the job is selling and having a relationship with the client where they’re willing to trust you. We’re paid to have opinions. We work for clients. If you don’t like it go in house.

@OP Your positivity can help the whole environment. Don't feel silly for having what everyone else actually wants! 😉

You guys will get to where we are soon enough. Enjoy not being jaded while you can

Hahahahahaahahahahahahahahaha

If you care, you'll be good.

At some point we all learn to detach ourselves from the work to survive the rejection that comes with the job. I’m still excited about the work and mentoring younger creatives. But the internal politics and client issues do wear on you after 10 years or so. Take the jadedness with a grain of salt. It’s still the best job I can imagine. Even when I’m bitching

I think it’s a generational thing. Millennials are much more upbeat and optimistic than gen-exers who are the jaded ones. They grew up on ironic tee shirts and “Ren & Stimpy”. Just keep that "Doug”enthusiasm going for yourself and pass it on.

This is a great industry filled with talented and kind people. Enjoy.

Not yet. Soon, maybe.

Damn, none of you kids were taught the lessons of Deb Morrison I see