Two years ago, I wrote an article highlighting what young directors needed to focus on in 2023 to thrive. The commercial directing world moves fast – and in 2025, it’s clearer than ever that success won’t wait around. I’ve consistently encouraged the directors I manage to shift their mindset from reactive to proactive. This year, that shift isn’t just good advice – it’s essential. Directors who embrace this proactive mindset and rethink their approach are positioning themselves for long-term success.
Today’s thriving directors aren’t sitting around for the perfect job to drop into their laps – they’re actively hunting for it. Whether you are just starting out or you’re a seasoned pro here are the key traits directors who will thrive this year share.
Momentum is Your New Superpower
If you want to stay ahead, you’ve got to treat progress as a habit. Successful directors today have clear, actionable monthly plans. They know exactly what needs to happen to reach their goals. Forget passivity and waiting for your production company to find you work – it’s about proactive hustle. But this hustle isn’t random; it’s strategic, structured, and driven by a clear plan. If you don’t know what you want out of this year and in the future, you’re in trouble.
Your Vision Needs to be Crystal Clear
Here’s the thing: everything’s shifting. Budgets, AI workflows, agencies, platforms – it’s all up for grabs. The directors who are thriving now aren’t caught off guard by these changes. They’re ready, adapting, and using these shifts to their advantage. To thrive you need to have a clear path you can follow. Ask yourself honestly: Are you clear on what your next five years look like? If you’re not, you’ve got to catch up and start a plan.
Goals Make You Future-Proof
Setting goals isn’t optional; it’s essential. Future-proof directors set ambitious yet achievable goals. They don’t just dream – they chart detailed paths to success. Critically, they hold themselves and their collaborators accountable. This is essential!! Goals aren’t wish lists; they’re action plans. Don’t float aimlessly through the industry, set your compass toward your personal ambition.
Rituals Turn Downtime into Your Secret Weapon
Downtime isn’t lost time for successful directors – it’s their competitive edge. They utilize quiet periods deliberately to refine their positioning, update their portfolios, and sharpen their tools. Every shoot becomes a data point, and when the slower times come, they’re ready. They understand their performance data and apply insights to level up consistently. Learn how to divide your downtime between recharging physically, mentally and setting yourself up for success for the year ahead.
Ask Yourself the Right Questions
Success in directing isn’t just about vision or hustle though – it’s also about self-awareness. Regularly ask yourself:
- Do I genuinely know what I want next?
- Am I clear on my 5 year plan?
- Do I have the right support around me?
If your answer is “no” to any of these, it’s time to act. Successful directors aren’t shy about seeking help – they thrive because they surround themselves with supportive networks, mentors, and structured coaching.
Take Control of Your Career
Directors who will thrive in the next five years are already thinking ahead. They understand their industry deeply, they adapt swiftly, and most importantly – they take control. If you’re serious about thriving, don’t wait. Reach out, get clear on your vision, establish powerful habits, and own your momentum. It’s 2025 – the future is yours to create, make this year count.
Scott Pugnetti is the founder of Equals MGMT (www.equalsmgmt.com) and CTRL (www.ctrl.coach). He has been managing commercial directors for 13 years and is committed to improving working conditions for directors globally through pitch reform.
