Anyone else secretly terrified they’re aging out of the “grind years” phase? I’m 35, still hustling freelance gigs with no benefits, no savings, and no long-term plan. I’ve been telling myself it’s just “dues-paying,” but I’m tired, my back hurts, and I haven’t taken a real vacation in 4 years. I love the work, but is there supposed to be some magical turning point where it all clicks? At what point do you start demanding stability?

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Seriously? Age 35? Get a grip. I'm 59 and after 20 years at a station I was budget cut. But if you want to stay in the business you adapt to a new role in it. You learn the business side and with you on hands experience - move to the next phase of your career. There are so many media opportunities for people with your background - just pick up on the other skills to compliment what you have already accomplished.

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There’s no one-size-fits-all timeline, but burnout is real and valid. If the work you love is keeping you broke and exhausted, it’s okay to ask if it’s still serving you.

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I hit the wall at 32. Tired of grinding and hustling to still not have savings and barely afford to live. I may have just not made the right choices along the way, but seriously considering how to move forward.

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I keep expecting to hit the burn-out phase everyone talks about, but I haven't yet. I love the chaotic schedule, the "struggling artist" culture, the late nights and hustle. One day I'll get sick of it I'm sure, but that day is not today :)

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Oh it’s coming trust me

I don't think it's too late to pivot! Your skills are valuable and there are other jobs you can get with more stability. I shifted to being a project manager at creative agency. Wayyy more stability and a lot of the skills I had were transferable. Of course it's a completely different industry so there was a small learning curve, but it's worth it if you're looking for more stability at this age.

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Apply to the majors and get benefits and time off. Freelance is cool but after I while you want a bit more. Unless you’re going to run your own business….

I am tired of grinding honestly so I am fine with aging out of that phase. I have started to say no more and really focus on the things that matter to me. We only get one life and I am going to live it.

I think you demand stability when you want/need it. If your back hurts, and you're feeling drained, it sounds like its about time to start looking for some stability.

I am 42 years old.
I have been working day and night for 20 years.
I work 16 hours a day.
Sometimes I do freelance work and sometimes I do short-term jobs.
I still have no savings and it has become very difficult for me to pay for living expenses.
But I am not disappointed yet.
I do not believe in miracles.
But I am still trying to live a better life.

Listen to your intuition. Reflect on your skills and see what you might be able to pivot towards that would reflect the life you want to lead moving forward.

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