Spoiler: You Don’t Have to Be the Best to Begin

Starting my freelance journey has been a mixture of excitement, imposter syndrome, small wins, a bunch of overthinking, and a whole lot of learning. I know that growth happens when you step outside your comfort zone, and this experience has definitely been full of that. It's a continuous learning experience, so I wanted to jot down some of the key takeaways I've had so far, and maybe someone else out there will need to hear them too!

1. Done is better than perfect.

This is something we have all probably heard a million times, but if you’re a perfectionist (and an overthinker) like me, add this to your go to mantras... it makes a difference. It is so easy to get wrapped up in tweaking, redoing, and then second guessing all of it. But sometimes just putting yourself and your work out there is the best step you can take. It's about progress not perfection (I know... another cliche, but another important mantra of mine lol.)

2. There will always be someone “better”...

More experienced, more polished, more booked out. But that doesn’t make you less!!

You deserve to take up space, even if you’re just getting started and feel like you still have everything to learn. Your perspective matters and so does your work, even in its early stages. You don't have to be the best or most experienced to be worthy.

3. You’ll never stop learning...

And that's the magic of trying new things and being creative!

Whether it's a clever tip from another creator, a new tool you try out, or a lesson learned through trying something new (and maybe failing a bit...), every day brings an opportunity to grow. I love experimenting, exploring other creators's Instagram pages, and always keeping my eyes peeled for opportunities to learn. Learning is part of the process, not a sign that you’re behind. Let's say it again because I need the reminder... Learning is part of the process, not a sign that you’re behind.

4. Not having clients doesn’t mean you’re failing.

This one feels extra anxiety-inducing because it takes a lot to put yourself out there so vulnerably. When you’re putting in work showing up online, building a brand, and trying new things, but still don’t have a client yet, it can feel really disheartening. Like maybe you’re not cut out for this or like no one sees the value in what you do... I often think, "What if I'm just not good enough? What if my work is actually so bad and ugly and it's laughable that I'm even trying this in the first place?"

But I try to remember...

My (and your!) worth is not measured by your client roster.

We are all still learning, still growing, and gaining so much by simply showing up and practicing. Every mock project, every post, every tutorial watched or passion project explored is all adding to your skill set and creative confidence! So keep going. The right clients will come, and in the meantime, you're becoming even more skilled, creative, and prepared.

5. Your brand will grow with you.

As I evolve, so does the way I show up online. And that can feel really overwhelming sometimes... like I'm constantly chasing updates and revisions and refinements. What’s helped me is keeping a running list of things I want to revisit when I have the energy or space. That way I’m not scrambling, but still staying intentional about my growth and avoiding burnout.

6. Consistency does not equal constant output.

I don’t post every day. I don’t design every day... and that’s okay.

What matters is staying present in a way that feels sustainable. For me, that looks like posting to Instagram weekly, engaging with other creatives often, and fitting in design practice when I can around my full-time job. Small, steady steps count!

7. There are so many resources out there.

I’ve found a ton of practice prompts, tutorials, and design briefs that have enhanced my learning a lot. If you're learning and practicing, seek out free resources... They’re out there, and they’re great! (Tip: look up designer briefs on Instagram and you will find so many practice projects!)

8. Your journey won’t look like anyone else’s.

And it’s not supposed to!

The timelines, the styles, the paths... they’ll all look different, and that’s the fun of it. What matters most is that you show up for yourself, honor your pace, and find balance so you don’t burn out. You deserve to build something that supports you and sparks joy.

If you’re just starting out too, I hope this encourages you to keep going. This work is messy and magical and meaningful all at once... and no matter where you are, you deserve to be here.