my secret for a successful graphic design career

Summary

This video shares three key quotes that have significantly impacted the speaker's graphic design career. The speaker emphasizes overcoming perfectionism, encouraging designers to prioritize completing projects rather than chasing perfection. They also discuss the importance of putting oneself out there, making opportunities, and being vocal about career aspirations. Lastly, the speaker addresses procrastination, urging viewers to start their projects now rather than waiting. The overall message promotes taking action, continuous improvement, and forming genuine connections to advance in graphic design and other creative fields.

Takeaways

• 😀 Done is better than perfect: Overcoming perfectionism is crucial for consistent creation and improvement.
• 🎯 Perfectionism can be a barrier: Focusing too much on perfecting projects can prevent you from completing and sharing your work.
• 🚀 Consistency over perfection: Regularly finishing work builds skill and gives you more opportunities for success than chasing perfection.
• ⏳ Parkinson's Law: Tasks will expand to the time allotted, so setting deadlines helps you complete work efficiently.
• 🤝 A closed mouth doesn't get fed: Actively seek opportunities, put yourself out there, and advocate for yourself to get ahead in your career.
• 🖼 Showcase your work: Posting conceptual work online can lead to real projects and connections in the design community.
• 📬 Cold emails and messages: Don’t be afraid to reach out to potential clients and networks. The worst outcome is a 'no'.
• 🌱 Start now: Don't let procrastination stop you. It’s better to start and improve than to wait for the perfect moment.
• 🤗 Build genuine relationships: Personal connections often lead to opportunities, so focus on creating meaningful relationships.
• 💡 Learn by doing: Every new endeavor, no matter how intimidating, provides valuable learning experiences and growth opportunities.

Q & A

What is the main issue graphic designers face according to the speaker?

The main issue graphic designers face is perfectionism, which can prevent them from finishing projects or putting their work out there.

How does the speaker suggest overcoming perfectionism?

The speaker suggests overcoming perfectionism by setting a specific time limit for completing tasks, which helps to combat the tendency to procrastinate and never finish projects.

What is Parkinson's Law as mentioned in the script?

Parkinson's Law states that a task will expand to fill the time available for its completion. The speaker uses this law to argue for setting strict deadlines to improve productivity.

Why is it important to put your work out there, according to the speaker?

Putting your work out there is important because it allows you to receive feedback, build a community, and gain recognition, which can lead to more opportunities and satisfaction in your career.

What is the significance of the phrase 'A closed mouth doesn't get fed' in the context of the script?

The phrase 'A closed mouth doesn't get fed' emphasizes the importance of self-promotion and actively seeking opportunities rather than passively waiting for them to come.

How does the speaker recommend creating opportunities in graphic design?

The speaker recommends creating opportunities by showcasing your work online, engaging with communities, and being proactive in reaching out to potential clients or employers.

What is the speaker's view on the value of creating a large body of work?

The speaker believes that creating a large body of work is valuable because it leads to improvement, as repetition and consistent creation help in developing skills and building a portfolio.

Why does the speaker encourage designers to take risks and 'shoot their shot'?

The speaker encourages designers to take risks because it can lead to personal growth, new opportunities, and the chance to prove one's capabilities, even if there is a possibility of rejection or failure.

What does the speaker suggest is the best time to start pursuing a new endeavor?

The speaker suggests that the best time to start pursuing a new endeavor is as soon as possible, emphasizing that the second-best time is now, and that delaying only leads to more regret.

How does the speaker relate the concept of 'putting yourself out there' to personal growth?

The speaker relates 'putting yourself out there' to personal growth by illustrating how taking risks, showing your work, and engaging with others can lead to new experiences, learning opportunities, and a more fulfilling career.

What advice does the speaker give for dealing with the fear of starting something new?

The speaker advises that the fear of starting something new is natural but should not be a deterrent. They suggest embracing the learning process, accepting that initial attempts may not be perfect, and focusing on the long-term benefits of starting now.