Starting out as a designer is a lot. And if you’re anything like me, you’ve probably felt super lost, low-key insecure, and not totally sure if you’re even doing it right. Same. Looking back, there’s so much I wish I had known earlier. So here’s a little list of lessons I had to learn the hard way. Hopefully they save you some time (and maybe a few breakdowns).

1. You don’t need to be “naturally talented” to start.

Let me be real with you. My first designs? Actual trash. Like, I wanted to yeet my laptop out the window. I seriously doubted if I was cut out for this. But here’s the thing. Creativity isn’t some magical, you-have-it-or-you-don’t type of thing. It’s a skill. You get better by practicing and showing up consistently. If you’re stuck in the “I’m not talented enough” mindset, I’ve been there. The only way out is to start and keep going.

2. Create passion projects early.

Stop waiting for a teacher, client, or whoever to give you permission. Passion projects are the shortcut. They help you figure out your style, find your niche, and make work you’re actually excited about. Graphic design can feel super broad and overwhelming at first, so start with the styles and industries you’re already drawn to and put your own spin on them.

3. You don’t need real clients to show what you can do.

I used to think my portfolio had to be full of “real” client work to be taken seriously. Spoiler: it doesn’t. Clients mostly care if you can execute and if your style fits their brand. That’s it. So don’t feel like you need to pad your portfolio with random client projects just to make it look legit. Only show the work you’re proud of. Quality over quantity, always.

4. Curate your portfolio around what you want to do.

This one’s huge. Your portfolio is a magnet. It attracts the type of work you put out there. So if you love branding, show branding. If you’re into editorial design, highlight that. Don’t worry about being a jack of all trades. The more you focus on one area, the easier it’ll be for people to know exactly what you do and why they need you.

5. Graphic design is 50% visuals, 50% communication.

I wish I had known earlier how important it is to explain your work. Design doesn’t always sell itself. Being able to talk about your ideas, explain your process, and pitch yourself makes such a difference. It’s not just about making things look good. It’s about communicating why they work. The better you get at that, the more confident you’ll feel.

6. Invest in continued learning.

This one hit me late. I didn’t start investing in my skills until way after college, and I wish I had done it sooner. Whether it’s courses, mentorship, or coaching, leveling up isn’t always cheap, but it’s 100% worth it. Figure out what you need to work on and make a plan to get better. The more you invest in yourself, the faster you’ll grow.

7. Be open to change.

Things move fast in design. New tools, trends, tech… you name it. Resisting change will only slow you down. I’m not saying you have to jump on every shiny new thing, but be open-minded. Learn about where the industry is heading and adapt when it makes sense. The future’s coming either way, so you might as well be ready for it.

8. Learn to handle criticism.

This one was rough for me. As an introvert, I used to take criticism super personally. But if you want to grow, you need to build thicker skin. Feedback will make you a better designer. It helps you justify your work, handle pushback, and work with tougher clients. It’s all part of the job, and the sooner you can take feedback without spiraling, the better.



Wanna watch the video version of this blog? Check out this YouTube video: