I vividly remember a time when my creative endeavors were represented by crumpled sketches strewn across my bedroom floor. Nights were sacrificed, my hand cramped from endless drawing sessions, all to immortalize a beautiful idea on paper with graphite. Now, as I gaze from my new office at the team I lead, I see an intern who mirrors my past self – determined, incredibly skilled, yet undeniably lost. This is for that intern and all creatives feeling financially
stuck; chin up, my friend, for there’s only one way to go when you hit rock bottom – up!

Just start
Whether you’re initiating your creative journey or embarking on a new chapter, procrastination won’t yield positive results. Embrace the discomfort of conscious incompetence that accompanies every beginning. Greatness requires action. No perfect moment exists to submit your portfolio or apply to a creative agency. As they say, “Do it scared, but do it anyway!” Your big break may be just steps beyond your comfort zone.

Get out of your own head
The term ‘imposter syndrome’ may be overused, but its chains can still be potent. Before dismissing your work as inadequate, appreciate that you created it in the first place. Save even the roughest sketches; you never know when they might prove useful. Step out of your own head occasionally, seek feedback, and collaborate with others. Don’t navigate the creative journey alone – a group is often more powerful than a lone ranger. Clear mental cobwebs by discussing ideas with someone you trust. Your mind is a treasure trove of creativity, but like any beautiful house, sometimes you need to step outside and enjoy the sunshine. Your mind should not hinder your success.

Seek wise counsel
No one is an invincible, all-knowing being. We need each other to improve. Seek advice from those with more experience and skill, forming connections with a sagely tribe. Collaborate with people who can offer valuable insights, pointing out possibilities you may have never considered. Meaningful conversations with like-minded individuals can birth killer ideas. Choose your advisors wisely – let their results qualify them as worthy counsel.

Be boldly creative
While copying has its place, so does ingenuity. Be conservative, when necessary, but also scream with your designs. Now, as the industry faces an influx of mediocre creative work, there’s no better time to be boldly creative. Bend the rules; after all, jazz music was created that way. There’s no creative box to fit in; every masterpiece reflects its creator’s uniqueness. Explore your style relentlessly – human ingenuity cannot be replaced by AI.Know your value In all of this, we haven’t discussed money because it follows value. Understand your worth and present it in an irresistible package. Too many young creatives are exploited due to a lack of understanding of their value. In my early career, I accepted work indiscriminately, hesitant to ask for fair pay.

Eventually, I sought advice and learned a crucial lesson: “You determine the value the client sees in you.” I stopped being afraid to ask for fair pay. Initially met with skepticism, persistence attracted clients willing to pay what I was worth. I’m not advocating for greed, but for realism and assertiveness. Determine your value; playing it safe keeps you in the junior league. To reach the next level of financial success, take risks on yourself. It may take time, but it will undoubtedly pay off.

Choose one of these at time and apply them consistently and witness the remarkable transformation in both your creative and financial life. But, hey, why stop there? Take the next leap in your creative journey by joining the Artfield
January intake. Picture this: refining your skills, soaking in wisdom from seasoned mentors, and mingling with a tribe of passionate creatives. It’s not merely an opportunity; it’s the key to unlocking the full potential of your passion.
Don’t overthink it; grab this chance to turn your skills into a lucrative career. Enroll in the Artfield January intake today and explore firsthand how you can earn significantly doing what you love. Your journey to artistic and financial fulfillment is calling – answer it! You’ve got the talent; let Artfield guide you in transforming it into prosperity. The January intake is your ticket to a brighter, more fulfilling future. Don’t let it slip away – sign up now!