What every designer should know about failure

Maybe you know how it feels to lose your job. Or when someone tells you that you can't be a designer without school. Maybe you sent out job applications and no one called back.

But here's the truth: if you find success later, it doesn't mean you were a failure before. I've been where you are. And I never gave up.

In this newsletter, I want to share my reflections on my design journey and provide some insights and tips that have helped me along the way.

Failure is a blessing and the key to success

I wasn't always where I am now. I failed a lot. But I learned to see each failure as a chance to grow. Back in 2016, I started posting my work on Instagram. For two whole years, I didn't make any money. I failed again and again. But I kept going.

What helped me was having a plan and pushing through the hard times. I learned new skills. I won my first client. What matters most is how you deal with failure and what you do next.

Create your unique journey

People often ask me, "How do I become a designer?" I get it. But first, ask yourself: why do you want to be a designer? Is it because your friend is one? Did someone say you're good at it? Or do you just feel it in your heart?

Whatever you want to become, the key questions to start with are:

1. Why do you want to become a designer?
2. What is your goal?

Maybe you want to be a UX/UI designer—now is the time to create a path and stick to it.

The right approach matters

Ever notice how some designers share everything except their actual work? Then they wonder why they don't get clients. It's all about how you do things. When you post stuff online, have a clear goal. Want more clients? Then share work that clients want to see—not just posts that get likes.

Remember, you get what you give.

Trust the process & document

As a designer, your most valuable thing is your work. People want to see what you can do, not just hear about it. They find you because of your portfolio. They ask about your skills after they see your work.

When I was starting out, I shared everything I made online. This helped me find clients faster. Think of your work like a magnet that pulls in opportunities.

Your work speaks for itself. Make good stuff, share it, and clients will find you.

In short: don't let failure hold you back

• Don't give up on failure – Each setback is a lesson. Learn, adapt, and keep moving.
• Pursue your passion – Stay focused on why you started, especially when challenges arise.
• Build recognition through consistency – Show up regularly, and the right people will notice.
• Act on your priorities – Focus on what truly drives your growth, not distractions.
• Document your journey – Share your work; it's your story, and it will attract opportunities.

Today's Action Step

Think about a time you failed recently. How could it help you learn? Take 5 minutes to write down:

1. What the failure taught you
2. One small step you can take based on what you learned

See you in another one!
Let's grow together 🙌