7 learnings during my first year as a freelance graphic designer

28 Feb

It’s been more than one year since I’ve decided to take the plunge and spread my wings into the freelance world of design. I can’t believe how fast the time has gone already and how much has happened in the past year.

In celebration of 365 days spent doing what I love, i’ve compiled seven learnings during my first year of freelance.

I’m glad I had experience behind me before starting going freelance.
Having the previous experience I did when working in an agency, made my first year way easier to navigate. Not only did I have an abundance of work to put into my portfolio, but i’d already had an insight into marketing a design company, working with other creatives & how to project manage (dw G, I will never be as good as you)
Flexibility is the best part
Making my own hours has been life changing. Very quickly I realised concentrating for 8 hours straight was hard for me, and once I get to the 3pm lull there was no real work getting done. I’ve had to convince myself to not feel guilty when I work different hours - but for me personally, working all morning and the remaining hours in the evening have helped me create a much better work/life balance. Don’t get me wrong, most days I will still be doing a 9-5. But knowing I have the option to be flexible whenever I need it, is what really makes freelancing worth it.
I’m not just a designer
I am also my own financial planner, accountant, salesperson, social media person, and more… ok maybe not accountant (Thanks, Dad!) but I still have to work with numbers way more than I ever thought.
Networking is SO important
I've learned that networking isn't just for corporate types in suits. In the freelance world, it's all about who you know, and more importantly, who knows you.
It’s hard to switch off
Being freelance, you are your whole business so it’s a lot harder to switch off. There have been many holidays last year that were spent doing last minute amends and checking in on my emails. I’ve found working whilst away is one of the many perks of being freelance, but taking a full break every now and then is even more beneficial. (I also learnt how to turn my out of office on too which was the biggest game changer.)
Surround yourself with like-minded people
Making time for people when you work alone is still important. This helps when the majority of your friends (and boyfriend) are also freelancers. Little work dates in the city have been some of my favourite moments of 2023 and having fellow creatives to bounce ideas off is incredibly useful when creative block strikes.
I’m stronger than I thought
One of the biggest lessons has been realizing my own resilience. There have been tough days, sure, but also many moments of victory. And hey, if I can navigate the tax system, I can do anything!