Year 1 of freelancing: 5 things I’ve learned
Looking back on my first year as a freelance designer and illustrator, it has been full of growth, new experiences and learning. Along the way, I’ve picked up a few key lessons that have helped me focus my work and tackle the challenges of working for myself.
Here are five things I’ve learned along the way. Some are easier said than done, and some I have to continue to remind myself of.
1. Do fewer things, better
I love exploring new tools, styles, and approaches. Experimentation has value: it sparks ideas, helps you discover what you enjoy, and can lead to unexpected opportunities. But spreading yourself too thin can dilute your work. Focusing on a narrower range of skills and approaches allows you to go deeper and create work you’re really proud of. Focusing doesn’t limit creativity, it enhances it.
2. Failure is part of progress
Mistakes are a big part of growth. The key is patience, self-compassion, and framing failure as learning in action. If you fail, it usually means you tried something new, and new things are always challenging at first. The real failure is never trying at all.
3. Practice, practice, practice
Progress comes from showing up consistently, honing your craft and business skills over time. Don’t fear imperfection, instead focus on moving forward. Making time for regular practice is a choice, because we all have the same hours in a day. Choosing to fully commit to one thing often means saying “no” to countless other shiny distractions. But the improvement that comes from consistent practice is worth it.
4. Know when to stop
More hours don’t always mean better work. In fact, overworking has the potential to harm the quality of your project. At some point, you need to trust yourself and have the confidence to call a project finished. Creators are often perfectionists, and it can be difficult to release work into the world when there’s always one more tweak we’d like to make. Quality rest is also essential - rest time isn’t wasted time, its an investment by allowing yourself to recharge, process ideas, and return with fresh energy.
5. There’s still a place for human creators
Even with everything that AI brings, people value human connection. Clients appreciate the support, guidance, and perspective that a human creator brings. Technology and AI are tools, but the thoughtful, human touch in design and illustration is still invaluable.
Final thoughts
The first year of freelancing has been both challenging and very rewarding. If you’re embarking on your own freelance journey, remember to focus your efforts, commit to your goals, practice consistently, rest when needed, and never remember that your creativity still has value.
I’d love to hear from fellow creatives. If you have questions, thoughts, or just want to share your experiences, feel free to get in touch. If you have an idea for a project or want to learn more about the creative process, don’t hesitate to reach out.
