Emotional Toll of Project Failures in Creative Industries

There’s a lot of pressure to develop a thick skin and walk it off when something we’ve poured our heart and soul into just… doesn’t happen. But ignoring the ouch doesn’t make it go away.

The hard truth? Some projects don’t make it. Maybe your film got shelved, your contract was canceled, or the work you invested in was suddenly deprioritized. No matter the industry, not everything—or everyone—crosses the finish line.

In Western society, we cling to success to make us feel safe. So taking a moment to say "ouch" is counter to what we are taught: suck it up, don’t be so sensitive, don’t dwell. It sucks that we’re conditioned to ignore the gut punch because ignoring the emotional impact of a setback doesn’t erase it. It just buries it, making it harder to fully engage with the next opportunity.

Renewal rituals—intentional acts to mark an ending—help us heal the hurt so we can be ready for what’s next.