The recent events in the US have taught the world a bunch of lessons (don’t trust research for one). But it also gives us stark reminder of the importance of resilience. Of bouncing back. Love him or loathe him, you can’t deny Trump is a political phoenix.

Like politics, Adland is tough.

Plus, it’s deeply personal. Every concept, every word of copy, every pixel of design, every award entry. They all include a little piece of your soul. So, when it doesn’t fall your way, it can be devastating. It’s tempting to wallow. But you can’t dwell on what’s done.

Let me give you an example.

About 5 years ago, I had the most exciting and disappointing morning of my professional life. It was Cannes Lions short-list day. We were quietly optimistic about several of our entries who we hoped would be announced as finalists.

That morning, I woke to find a delighted text from our CEO telling us we had 7x shortlisted entries. Yep, 7x. I was euphoric. I promptly took the dog for his morning walk and my feet didn’t hit the pavement. I floated.

When I got home, a follow-up message from the CEO said he’d misread the email. We had 7x entries and, sadly, 0x shortlisted.

Never before (or since) had such a high, high transform into a low, low so quickly.

It taught me a life lesson (obviously when I got over the accidental cruelty). It struck me that getting shortlisted was never the point. The trophy was never the point. Solving the problem was. Working with smart people was. The idea was. So, instead of chasing easy briefs or writing a scam ad or taking credit for product development, I did what I always did.

Nothing.

When the inevitable challenges rise up against you, do what you do. Ignore the noise. Resist the shortcut temptation. Try not to get overawed or depressed. Instead, stick to what you know. Ultimately, your talent and your persistence will win out.

Or, you could just turn off all media for 4 years.

Rob Morrison is a rarity in advertising – a grey-haired creative. Rob’s experience includes time as a Creative Director at Ogilvy, BWM (now Dentsu Creative), George Patts (now VML), Campaign Palace and Wunderman. He now runs his own consultancy – morrison.collective.

Here are two more opinion pieces from Rob Morrison:

Cover image Matt Palmer on Unsplash