Hey fellow creative! You know that feeling of dread that creeps up when it’s time to put your ideas out into the world? It’s like a rollercoaster of emotions. You know you need to get your work out there. The client can’t love it if they can’t see it, right? But hitting publish or pressing send on the email still makes you feel queasy, even after all these years! I get it. I feel the same, even after being a designer for (cough) decades! Here are some ideas and strategies that might help. They probably won’t make the fear go away completely, but should give you the boost you need to do it anyway!
Embrace imperfections: You’re perfectly imperfect
Here’s the deal. Perfection is way overrated. Your work doesn’t have to be flawless! Embrace those little imperfections that make your creations unique and relatable. Trust me, it’s often the rawness and authenticity that connects with others. So let go of that pressure and let your creativity flow without worrying about being “picture-perfect.”
Build your support squad: Get a gang of creative allies
We all need someone to lean on, right? Surround yourself with a supportive community of fellow creatives who get what you’re going through. Share your work with this trusted crew and soak up their encouragement and constructive feedback. They’ll be your cheerleaders, your community, helping you find the courage to show the world what you’ve got. Plus, who knows, some great collaborations might come out of it!
Let’s talk about impact: Your ideas are powerful
Ah, the fear of not being heard or understood. I get it. But it’s worth trying to shift your mindset. Focus on the impact your creations can have on others. Think about the people out there who will be inspired, moved, or even transformed by what you’ve created. When you realize the potential your ideas hold to make a difference, it’s easier to let go of those nerves and share your work with the world.
Small steps: Dipping your toes in the sharing pool
Putting your ideas out there doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing thing. You’re allowed to start small. Share your work with your besties or family first. Get their feedback and soak up their love. As you gain confidence, take it up a notch and start sharing on social media or joining online creative communities. It’s a gradual process, and you’ll find that each step outside your comfort zone helps you grow.
Remember the brief: You have your reasons
As a designer, you have your reasons. You’re not an artist. The work isn’t for you it’s to meet a brief. To relate to a target audience. Achieve a goal for a client. Take a few minutes to look back at the brief, and what the client needs. Think about the branding workshop you did and the insights from that. If you’re a decent designer, which I bet you are, there are valid reasons for the choices that you’ve made on behalf of that client. You know that. They need to know it, and the best person to relate that? Well, that’s you.
Conclusion
So? You’ve got this! Those nerve-inducing moments before sharing your work? We’ve all been there, and it’s completely normal. But with these tips in your back pocket, you’re armed and ready to share your ideas with the world. Embrace imperfections, seek out a supportive community, focus on the impact, take small steps, and remember you have your reasons. I can’t wait to see your creations!
If you’re still in doubt, this quote by Lou Danziger (sent to me on a postcard by the Interaction Design Foundation) usually helps me. “Design is intelligence made visible.” There. I feel better already!
