Embracing the Struggle: How Challenges Shape Exceptional Designers

For my creatives,

It's probably been bumpy for some of us. Each of us, at some point in our journey as designers, has hit a wall - a moment of self-doubt, a period of struggle, or even a career setback like a job loss. It's these very moments, however, that carve out the path to our growth and success. Today, I want to talk about why struggling as a designer is the best way to learn and how it can actually be a crucial part of defeating that annoying imposter syndrome.

The Struggle is Real – And It's Good

Yes, you read that right. Struggling isn't just part of the process; it's an essential one. It's easy to feel alone in your challenges, but the truth is, many of us are in the same boat. Facing similar hurdles helps create a bond in our community, making the journey less lonely.

Remember those moments that made you question, "Can I even do this?" Those are the exact moments where growth occurs. It's in these times of fear and uncertainty that we push our boundaries, learn new skills, and adapt. It's uncomfortable, yes, but also incredibly rewarding.

Recently, I experienced a significant career setback – I was laid off from my full-time design position. It was a jolt, a moment that forced me to reevaluate my path. And it's been challenging, navigating the uncertainty and constantly seeking the next opportunity. Although I was in a fortunate spot to have offers outside of this scary moment, change is just... hard.

However, I've started to view these challenges as milestones. In 5 years, I'll look back at this time as pivotal. It's these moments that refine our skills and redefine our goals.

Let me break it down on a more personal note. The process of doubt in creative is beautiful. It starts with a moment at first glance staring at a blank white canvas. Surrounded by intense feelings of it maybe feeling impossible or you’re incapable— then the attempt to create a solid picture in your head, however, it’s blurred. Then though the process of trial and error, mixing and matching, research and development, comes clarity. For some accomplished, for many not fulfilled, so we start another project. A genuinely beautiful dance of mental warfare (lol), commitment, and passion.

In short, you’re not alone in your thoughts.

For me, the once daunting feelings of doubt and fear have transformed into excitement for development. The reason I’d see this period as pivotal isn't just due to the significant life change, but because it offered me a chance to reevaluation of my goals and desires.

Questions to Propel Forward

Consider these questions for a moment,

1. What am I good at?

2. What do I want for myself?

3. What skills or experiences am I currently lacking to achieve these goals?

4. Most importantly, how do I plan to reach these goals?

Sounds pretty cheesy or repetitive maybe if you’re younger, or you might’ve realized after reading this, that you’ve been on auto pilot and comfort reorganized your priorities. But you don’t need to wait for a life-altering event to start this introspection.

The Side Hustle Syndrome

Many of us find ourselves in an endless pursuit of the next client or job, often stemming from a lack of clear direction. Defining what you want is crucial, whether it's a six-figure salary in a full-time design role or something else entirely.

If you're struggling with creating a plan, revisit the questions above. Research the market, identify roles and companies that align with your goals, and set your sights on them. Shoot, maybe even interview with them and WHEN you get declined, ask why.

There's this magical moment in every designer's life when the skill that stemmed from passion transitions into a lifelong career. But it's what you do after acknowledging this passion that sets you apart and leads to greatness.

Your Creative Blueprint

So, what does it take to build a successful design career? Start by pinpointing your niche, crafting a compelling portfolio, a resume so compelling that it merits the attention of the companies you aspire to work for, and effectively networking. It all matter, every action counts, from your engagements with clients, to those partnership mockups where you can come with with something really special, to showcasing your creativity on platforms like Twitter, Youtube, and/or TikTok.

Our journey as designers is more than just creating; it's about overcoming, learning, and evolving. Embrace your struggles – they're not hurdles; they're the stepping stones that pave the way to your success. Plant those feet as you take a step, you don’t have to leap your way through all the time.

Stay creative,
Seso

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