Why Be Thankful You’re a Screenwriter?

When I was a kid, I used to pore over TV Guide magazine. I suspect only a few of you know that reference, but it was a big deal back then — each issue listed every TV show airing that week, complete with episode summaries. I’d study it, underline my favorites, and make sure I was home to watch those special ones. The joy of anticipating how characters would interact, how the jokes and drama would play out — it was exciting every single time.

Back then, I never imagined I could be a part of that world. Sure, I’ve always loved telling stories and making people laugh, but it didn’t occur to me that it could be a career. Yet here I am, doing work that gives me a front row seat to the creation of TV series. I am deeply grateful that my life took me down this path, where I get to help folks make those shows and, in the process, realize their Hollywood dreams. I really couldn’t be more thankful. 

But I get that this isn’t how a lot of screenwriters are feeling right now. Heading into the holiday season, I’m sure many of you are feeling anything but thankful (or relaxed). November often means juggling writing deadlines with family obligations, dealing with pitches that get pushed to the new year, watching important emails just sit there, unanswered, as the industry winds down, and let’s not forget the current Hollywood mantra: “Survive until ’25.” Not exactly calming.

Being a screenwriter is tough even in the best of times. It’s easy, especially around the holidays, to let the downsides of this career get the better of you. But here’s the thing: for all the challenges (and trust me I get it, there are a LOT; especially right now) being a screenwriter is still one of the most rewarding jobs out there.

So, with Thanksgiving around the corner — whether you’re dreading that moment when everyone goes around the dinner table and shares what they’re thankful for, or you just need a little pick-me-up — here are 5 reasons to be thankful you’re a screenwriter:

1. You work in entertainment— the career path with no prerequisite

Yeah, the hustle in this industry is no joke — relentless deadlines, trying to stretch a pay check until the next script sale, and stiff competition from about a bajillion other screenwriters. But here’s the thing: despite its challenges, entertainment is one of the only fields where anyone can make it. Let me say that again, anyone can make it as a screenwriter. Unlike becoming a brain surgeon or an astronaut, there is no set list of prerequisites to get started. You don’t need a fancy degree or “the right” connections to break in (although those can help). But if you don’t have those, your talent, drive, and a willingness to work your ass off can put you over the finish line. Sure, it might take time (sometimes a lot of time), and there are no guarantees, but the possibilities are endless for those who refuse to quit. So next time you’re feeling the weight of the grind, remember this: you’re in an industry where there are very few rules and the sky’s the limit for those who keep pushing.

2. You create something from nothing 

There’s a certain magic in starting with a blank Final Draft document and turning it into an entire world — characters, relationships, jokes, emotions — all from nothing. Not everyone can do that, but you can. You know how to bring stories to life that didn’t exist before you sat down at your laptop. That’s not just something to be thankful for — it’s something to be proud of. Sure, the process can suck sometimes. Rewrites are tough, notes can drive you crazy, and writer’s block? It can be a bear. But at the end of the day, you’ve made something that only exists because of you. That’s a gift.

3. Binge-watching is part of your job

Yes, you read that right. Whether you’re catching up on the latest series, watching a horror movie marathon at 1am, or devouring an entire novel in one sitting, it’s all part of your job. Every movie, TV show, or book you consume is fueling your craft — sparking inspiration, teaching you new tricks, and keeping you up to speed on industry trends. So the next time your family judges you for re-watching The Office for the 50th time, just remind them: it’s research, not procrastination.

4. Great scripts change people

I know, I know, it sounds cheesy, but it’s true. Movies and TV shows have the power to move people in ways that few other things can. Think about it from your own experience: Was there a Saturday morning cartoon you always watched as a kid that made you feel less alone? A fictional character from a romance movie that made you feel seen after a rough breakup? Or a hilarious moment from a comedy that still makes you laugh whenever it pops into your head? Your work can do that for someone else. No matter what genre you write in, great scripts can make people laugh, cry, examine their values or even rethink their lives. Seriously! When people are going through something, they don’t always turn to therapists, family or even friends — often they find answers in TV shows and movies.

5. You’ll never wonder, “What If?”

If you’re a screenwriter, it means you’re doing something most people are too scared to even try: go after a dream. While others settle for safe, stable jobs, you’ve chosen to pursue something that genuinely excites you. That’s rare, and it takes a lot of courage and perseverance. So, if you’re heading home for Thanksgiving this year and find yourself surrounded by relatives who don’t quite “get” what you do, just remember — you’re living a life most people are too afraid to even attempt. You’ll never have to look back one day and wonder, “What if?” because you actually went for it. And that’s something to be truly thankful for.

Why are you thankful for this Thanksgiving? Let me know @CaroleKirsch!

For more industry info and tips check out these additional resources:

For the ultimate guide to pitching a TV show that sells, check out my e-book, The Ultimate Guide to a Killer Pitch

To learn how to create your “personal logline” read my free e-book, Tell Your Story in 60 Seconds.

For my in-depth video course on breaking into the business go to: Carole Kirschner’s Hollywood Boot Camp.

And you can find my book, Hollywood Game Plan on Amazon or at Michael Wiese Productions (MWP).