Ep 7. Nice Work If You Can Get It

In Thirtysomething season 1 episode 7, titled "Nice Work If You Can Get It," the focus shifts to Michael and his struggles with his job as a creative director at an advertising agency. Michael has been feeling unfulfilled at work, and this is causing a strain on his relationship with his wife, Hope.

At the start of the episode, Michael is having a rough day at work. He is struggling to come up with a new advertising campaign for a fast food chain, and his boss is not happy with his progress. Michael is frustrated by the demands of his job and the pressure to constantly churn out new ideas. He confides in his friend Elliot, who is also in the advertising industry, about his struggles.

Meanwhile, Hope is dealing with her own issues at home. She has been trying to start her own business selling homemade baby clothes, but she is struggling to stay motivated. She feels like she is not contributing enough to the family, especially since Michael is the primary breadwinner.

As the episode progresses, Michael becomes increasingly disillusioned with his job. He starts to feel like he is selling his soul by creating ads for products he doesn't believe in. He has a heart-to-heart conversation with his boss, who urges him to stick with it because "that's how the game is played."

Hope, on the other hand, is encouraged by a visit from her mother, who tells her to follow her dreams and not give up on her business. This gives Hope the motivation she needs to keep going and even convinces Michael to invest in her venture.

In the end, Michael comes up with a brilliant idea for the fast food chain campaign. His boss is thrilled, and Michael feels a sense of validation that he hasn't felt in a long time. Hope's business also takes off, and the couple realizes that they can both pursue their passions without sacrificing their family life.

Throughout the episode, the theme of work-life balance is front and center. Michael and Hope both struggle with the pressure to succeed at work while also maintaining their personal lives. They come to the realization that success doesn't have to come at the expense of their happiness and that pursuing their passions is just as important as making money.

Overall, "Nice Work If You Can Get It" is a relatable and thought-provoking episode that explores the challenges of finding fulfillment in both work and personal life. The characters are well-developed, and the storyline is engaging and insightful. This episode is a standout in a series that is known for its realistic portrayal of thirtysomething angst.