The end of a long running show or contract is often a fraught time for those in the arts, usually overflowing with strong and mixed emotions. You have to say goodbye to your connection with the project (and if you’re a performer, also to the character you have been inhabiting), end intimate interpersonal work relationships, and see the conclusion of an established work routine that has possibly provided financial stability. But the end of a long contract can also bring freedom, relief, and the exciting potential for new opportunities.
Let’s look at some ways you can make ending a significant chapter in your life more manageable, and have you looking at the future with renewed enthusiasm.
Firstly, it’s important to know that grieving the end of a long running creative project is completely normal and can illicit a complicated emotional response. Recognise any feelings of loss, sadness and emptiness, and give yourself permission to experience and express these emotions without any judgement. Allow time to move through the grieving process, remembering that healing isn’t instantaneous or linear. How people process endings is unique for each individual. Some may move on quite quickly, while others may have trouble letting go. However you respond, remember to honour your feelings and give yourself the time, patience and space to heal and move forward when you’re ready.
On the flip side, you may actually be incredibly happy this particular project is over. You may have had a rather difficult time with the piece, the people or the potential monotony of a long contract. You may have struggled with an intense schedule, missed being away from the comfort of home or being able to spend quality time with friends and family. Again, this is all completely normal! Relief at the end of a long-running project is common, and you should feel no guilt or shame if this is part of your emotional response.
Self-compassion is incredibly important at this time, so make sure you are implementing elements of self-care that you know fill your cup with joy and self-love. Examples of this could be exercising, getting out into nature and any hobbies or passions that promote a positive sense of well-being. Without the commitment to a restrictive work schedule, is it possible to plan a holiday or small trip away that provides not only the opportunity to thoroughly decompress, but also acts as a way to reward and celebrate your achievements of the season? At this time you may also need to slowly readjust back to a schedule that doesn’t involve late night work. Make sure you’re getting an adequate amount of sleep, you’re eating well and cutting down on things that may disrupt quality rest like alcohol, caffeine or recreational drugs.
Actively seek opportunities for formal and meaningful closure as the final day approaches. Giving closing night gifts and cards is a rewarding way to celebrate the connections you have created with work family, both on and off stage. Expressing appreciation you have for one another in written form gives your colleagues a keepsake to cherish, and vice-versa. Use these mementos as a way to document the memories of your experience. Create a scrapbook, journal or digital album to preserve these precious memories. Did you obtain a signed show poster or other memorabilia? Frame it and hang it with pride. Preserving these keepsakes helps you retain the positive experiences and emotions associated with this chapter of your life. Most projects will also have some sort of closing night party or get together, so use this opportunity to share stories with one another, reflect on your time together and say goodbye in a fulfilling way.
And although your time together on this specific project might be over, you’re still able to continue your relationship with colleagues beyond the current contract. It’s beneficial to cultivate your industry network, and these valuable connections can provide friendship and support, as well as possibly create opportunities for collaboration on future projects.
If you have trouble saying goodbye to your recent work experience, consider adopting a ritual to assist you in letting go. Activities like writing a letter to officially farewell your character or creating a piece of art may bring about a stronger sense of closure.
Changing your perspective from one of loss to one of gratitude can create the opportunity to say goodbye in a way that promotes more positive feelings. Reflect on any newfound skills, relationships and experiences you’ve gained throughout the process. Acknowledge any accomplishments and milestones you’ve achieved throughout the contract, and highlight the ways in which you are now a better performer, stage manager, crew member etc. from your time with this project.
Reframing the perspective of loss to one of new possibilities also helps stimulate a more productive growth mindset. Free of the restraints of a long-running project opens the door to new opportunities and beginnings. Many people use this time to explore fresh projects and pathways that will challenge them in different and exciting ways. I remember after my two and a half year contract with a professional major musical finally came to an end, I had newfound inspiration to explore areas of the industry I had previously never considered, like film/tv. If you’re a performer, talk to your agent or manager about setting new artistic or professional goals. For non-performers, reach out to mentors or new organisations about finding opportunities that may provide a fresh energy towards your work.
Finally, if you’re having trouble moving on from a recent project, remember to reach out to your support network - friends, family and creative colleagues. If the grieving process becomes too overwhelming, there are also mental health professionals out there who understand your experience. Therapists who know the difficulties an artistic life can bring may offer unique support and validate your challenges. Contact Centred Stage today if you need to talk to about grief associated with the end of your current work, or any other issues associated with life in the arts x