At the ripe age of 19, I began my career as a graphic designer. Although I wasn’t entirely sure where I was headed, I was motivated by the prospect of “creating” for a living –– paired with the fact that, for the first time in my life, school felt like it was agreeing with me. Eight years later, I have found myself steadily enlightened by the ways in which this career trajectory has impacted me…
It Challenges Me
With a client base that spans industries, I am constantly learning and kept on my toes. In most cases I’m handed existing pain points, then challenged to craft a solution that delivers both subject matter value and visual efficacy. Beyond a robust design “toolkit”, this involves a level of subject matter understanding that I’ve grown grateful to gain with each new project.
It Provides Perspective
Design is a form of art and although it can be analyzed in measured ways, art is subjective. It requires courage to share, open-mindedness to receive feedback and a persistence to move the needle. While I initially developed these qualities through my work and client relationships, I’ve found that they have ultimately shaped my mindset and approach on a personal level.
(Work) Courage to share = (Personal) Vulnerability with others
(Work) Open-mindedness to receive feedback = (Personal) Approachability and a willingness to “listen”
(Work) Persistence = (Personal) Tenacity to accomplish what I’ve set out to