As editors, we’re used to setting goals, hitting milestones, and chasing the next big project. But with everything changing in the film and TV industry, it’s becoming clear that our old timelines and strategies might not apply anymore. The industry is evolving—fast—and resisting that change only leads to more frustration and uncertainty.

This post is based on a recent video I created, inspired by a conversation I had with my students. Many editors right now are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure about what’s next. I’ve felt it too. But I’ve also learned a few key strategies that have helped me adapt—and I want to share them with you.

1. Accept That Things Are Different

One of the hardest truths to face is that the industry we relied on may not be the same anymore. Productions are slowing down. Jobs are fewer. And that big project you were counting on? It might not materialize the way you expected.

But accepting this shift is the first step forward. It doesn’t mean giving up on your goals. It means recognizing that the path to those goals might look different than it used to. When we resist change, we suffer more. But when we accept it, we give ourselves permission to adapt and move forward with clarity.

2. Focus on What You Can Control

There’s a lot we can’t control in post-production right now. But here’s what you can control:

• How you respond to uncertainty
• How you manage your time and energy
• What skills you choose to develop
• Your mindset and willingness to be flexible

By letting go of rigid expectations, you give yourself room to discover new opportunities that may have been invisible before.

3. Stay Flexible and Open

Flexibility doesn’t mean lowering your standards. It means being open to possibilities you might not have considered before. Maybe the show you wanted to cut is delayed—but this could be a time to explore a new genre, build up your portfolio, or improve your workflow.

Your career doesn’t have to come to a standstill just because the industry is in flux. Pivoting now could set you up for something even better down the line.

4. Build Resilience

Resilience is what gets us through the rough patches. It’s not about pretending everything’s fine. It’s about acknowledging the challenges and pushing forward anyway. Every editor who thrives in this industry has learned to bounce back—again and again.

The more you strengthen this muscle, the more confident you’ll be in facing the unknown.

Final Thoughts

The film and TV industry is changing. That’s not a reason to panic—it’s a chance to realign. Instead of holding onto what was, think about how you can evolve with what is. Take small steps. Focus on growth. And trust that the skills, mindset, and grit you develop during these times will carry you forward.

If you found this helpful, be sure to check out HollywoodEditingMentor.com for more resources, or consider joining the All-Access Pass for mentorship, training, and community support.

Let’s keep moving forward—together.