[Thread]

After my brief social media break the other week, I was hoping I would bounce back but sadly that hasn't happened. Had a few disheartening emails (or lack thereof), and generally been reassessing how capable I am as a writer. 1/11

The world of journalism has never felt so cutthroat and out of reach, and I know I echo a lot of young people who want to enter this profession when I say this. I know older professionals talk a lot about having thick skin when entering this industry 2/11

However, the intensity of social media, especially when it comes to aspiring journalists has added another layer the past couple of years with the rise of twitter. Every single achievement, article, success and step forward is documented 3/11

And it often feels like every break or rejection is another nail in the coffin of your career. I know far too many 17-21 year olds who feel as though they are already too far behind to make it. 4/11

This, coupled with the relentless news of job cuts in the media and a recession on the way leads to an insane amount of pressure to constantly be working and achieving. 5/11

Sometimes it feels like admitting or articulating these points means you are lazy, incapable or not deserving of a career in the media industry. Feeling demotivated or not good enough is incredibly common (which is a sad truth, this shouldn't be the case but capitalism lol) 6/11

There is a sense that either you are successful, being constantly commissioned and getting internships at every corner, or you are not. Apparently there is no breathing space. As someone who is in the same position as a lot of people I can't tell you everything will work out 7/11

especially when a lot of people are risking a lot to pursue this career (economic stability, acceptance from community etc). But what I can say is that you are not alone. I wish I could take more time off social media but unfortunately it is pretty essential... 8/11

Feeling this way doesn't mean I hate this industry. When I am given the chance to write and give a platform to important stories it reminds me why I am doing this. This is not a comment on us as individuals... 9/11

but a call to radically change the toxic atmosphere of the whole media industry. Stop being so secretive, normalise rejection, make it more welcoming, stop pitting talented young people against one another etc. 10/11

If you are a young journalist who has felt these things or believe this message, let's support one another (something I have tried doing these past few months), reach out, comment, retweet and let's be the change we want to see.

END

Thought I would tag a couple of places and people that are incredibly supportive and lovely if you are feeling lost:

@PressPadUK @OliviaCrellin @SPAJournalism @Jem_Collins @journoresources @jesshopeevans (if anyone can think of anyone/where else do comment them!)

@theracebeat @weblackjournos

@empowordjournos