At 62, Demi Moore’s won her first big award. Here’s how to stay motivated if your work isn't recognised
As ever, last night’s Golden Globes was filled to the brim with headline-worthy moments – but none more so than Demi Moore’s speech, as she accepted the award for Best Actress for her role in The Substance.
Despite being in the movie business for 45 years, it was the first major accolade she has won.
Taking stock of her career to date, the Ghost star not only spoke of the honour of the award, but also reflected on how she had been told by a producer that she is a "popcorn actress" – someone who stars in big movies and is a household name, but "couldn’t be acknowledged" in a critical sense.
She wrapped her speech up by saying that when the script of The Substance – a 2024 thriller about a woman who loses her job on her 50th birthday and is offered a substance promising to enhance her life – came across her desk, she realised that she was "not done" with her acting career.
Beyond Hollywood, though, this is a sentiment that many people can relate to. Pursuing your dream job can often seem like a thankless task – and it can also be difficult to remain focused, passionate and driven when you face multiple setbacks.
Why does recognition often come later on in our careers?
According to career coach Ayesha Murray, the main reason for this is that it takes time to build our personal brand.
"Recognition comes as a result of proven and consistent experience in our field, through building a positive reputation and through contributions within our organisation and within the wider industry," she says. "However, that doesn’t mean our achievements can’t be recognised early on in our careers – after all, these are the building blocks for long-term success."
Kevin Fitzgerald, UK MD at Employment Hero, meanwhile, suggests "there is undoubtedly a gendered element to this as well."
"All too often women are not given the same recognition as men for their early career work, as they are generally less likely to shout about their achievements than men, for fear of being seen as a ‘show-off’," he says. "All workplace leaders can do more to make sure women are recognised for this work."
How to stay motivated in your career
1. Focus on personal growth
Having self-belief is key to staying motivated and reduces the reliance on external validation, according to Murray. So if you feel that you’re not being supported through your organisation, then setting personal growth goals (learning new skills, expanding your network) will maintain your sense of achievement and confidence.
2. Set small, achievable milestones
She also recommends breaking down larger goals into smaller, more manageable tasks that you can get done in a shorter time frame.
"Remember to celebrate each small success along the way. This will maintain your momentum and give you a sense of progress," she adds.
3. Focus on impact over recognition
"Try and see the value in the work you’re doing, rather than fixating on needing recognition," Murray says. "Maintaining a positive mindset towards your work will give you a sense of purpose and builds long term confidence and fulfilment."
4. Tap in to your support network
Surrounding yourself with people who encourage you – whether that be colleagues, mentors, or friends – can also help, according to Murray.
"Set up regular check-ins, attend networking events or join professional bodies," she says.
5. Reflect regularly and track your progress
"Taking agency over our career success requires regular reflection and adjustments to the plan when necessary," Murray outlines. "Set aside time to review what you’ve learned, your achievements, and the obstacles you’ve overcome. Take pride in your journey."
6. Create opportunities for recognition
Actively seeking opportunities puts you in control of your career, she adds.
"Showcase your work, be strategic when it comes to building your network and don’t be afraid to speak up about your contributions."
What to do if it’s the end of the road on your dream job
Fitzgerald explains that the decision to change careers isn't about a specific timeline – it's about honest self-reflection.
"If you're no longer growing, can't see opportunities for meaningful impact, or find your values misaligned with your work, it's time to consider a change," he states. "Our recent employee wellbeing survey showed that 65% of UK workers have experienced burnout – which is often a sign that a change is needed."
How to deal with regret if you ‘gave up’ your dream
"It's never too late to pursue what drives you, but don't discount the valuable skills and experience you've gained in your current role," Fitzgerald says. "The modern workplace offers unprecedented flexibility to blend traditional careers with passion projects."
"Start small – perhaps with a side project or part-time study – while maintaining stability. The best path often combines security with pursuing your passions, rather than choosing between them," he adds.
Murray also says that there is always time to explore alternatives and reshape your career path. "I don’t believe we should ever give up on anything. It’s just sometimes the timing needs to be right," she says.
And if you are having doubts? "Revisit your dream job," she advises. "What was it that attracted you to it? What would life look like if you were doing that now? Which parts of the job would you love right now, and which parts wouldn’t quite work?
"Could you experiment with a portfolio career – maintain your current career while testing out the dream job on the side?
"If changing career seems too drastic, then look at elements of your dream job that could be incorporated into your current path. You may need to find another role or industry that wouldn’t require a complete change," she concludes.
Read more about the Golden Globes:
Golden Globes 2025: Most daring looks on the red carpet from Jennifer Coolidge to Cate Blanchett (The Independent, 4-min read)
The Real Reason Why Taylor Swift Skipped the 2025 Golden Globes (Elle, 2-min read)
Kylie Jenner and Timothée Chalamet spotted at Golden Globes after she ditched red carpet amid pregnancy rumours (The Independent, 1-min read)
