Lesson One: Learn to Love It
Are you interested in learning to design, whether it’s on Photoshop, Illustrator, or Procreate?
When I started, I had a basic knowledge of Photoshop and Illustrator from my job. I also used Canva, an online design resource, regularly.
I had nowhere near enough knowledge or practice to even think about becoming a designer. Then I started taking every course on Skillshare that piqued my interest. Over about 8 months, I made something every day and realised that I was really enjoying myself. It was only then that I considered taking steps to become a professional.
Having been around the block a few times, I’d had a few failed attempts at a career change. I’d have a great idea, buy the URL and madly plan for weeks, then eventually lose steam. Then there’d be a few months of thinking ‘I really should pick that back up again…’ and feelings of guilt that instead of working towards my new ‘dream’ on my time off, I was procrastinating. And if I wasn’t getting paid, it seemed like too much hard work.
Eventually I’d give it away, double down on my day job, and feel lighter for having given up on that particular idea.
That’s how I know that this design thing is going to stick. I’m doing it in my time off and it doesn’t feel like work. There are periods of stress and disliking everything I create, but I still go back, and I still find enjoyment in creating.
That’s my first lesson. You must learn that you love it before deciding to dedicate your energy to becoming it.
I now know I would have been miserable if I’d pursued a career in consulting or web management. But maybe, just maybe, designing is the thing for me.
How about you? Do you find time to create wherever you are? Or do you spend a lot of time thinking about it, but not doing it?
There’s nothing wrong with admitting you might not be cut out for it. In fact, it’s brave to admit that you were wrong. It takes courage to take a step back and reconsider the next step instead of pushing on through something that’s not right.
Take it from me, I’ve been there. I’m much happier after giving up what I thought would by my dream in pursuit of something else. If it comes down to it, I’ll even happily give up design to move on to the next big thing.
I hope not though!