Hey there, fellow dreamers and doers!
I can’t believe it’s been six whole years since I decided to jump headfirst into this wild adventure of running a design studio. It started as a small idea with a tiny but mighty team of talented designers, and now we’re a thriving agency with a vibrant client base and more stories than we can count. This journey has been an absolute rollercoaster—full of creativity, challenges, and growth. So, grab a chai, (if you know me in person), and let me share some lessons I’ve picked up along the way.
1. Learning Never Stops (Seriously, Never!)
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: design trends move faster than Instagram reels. To keep up, we’ve made learning a non-negotiable part of our culture. From geeky design webinars to hands-on workshops, staying curious has kept us ahead of the game. And guess what? It’s not just about the technical stuff—learning to work smarter and more creatively has made all the difference.
Pro Tip: Always watch out for any free learning videos. It’s worth it.
2. Clients Are Everything (No, Really, EVERYTHING)
Building trust with clients has been a game-changer. I’m talking about real connections—not just delivering what’s on the brief, but actually understanding what keeps them awake at night. Every project has taught us that happy clients are not just repeat clients—they’re your best cheerleaders. Bonus? Those deep conversations spark the best design ideas!
Lesson Learned: Keep promises. Always communicate. And follow up like your life depends on it.
3. Change Is the Only Constant (Cue Eye Roll, But It’s True)
The design world is a bit like fashion—what’s trending today is outdated tomorrow. Being flexible and ready to pivot (sometimes last minute!) has been one of our biggest strengths. Did I always love it? Nope. Did we grow from it? Absolutely.
Fun Fact: One of our best projects came from embracing a last-minute idea from a client. So, stay open—you never know what might click!
4. Creativity Thrives with Freedom (and less stress) You know what’s magical? Giving designers the space to own their work. Letting them take risks, experiment, and make mistakes (with a side of guidance, of course). Collaboration has also been our secret weapon—some of our most brilliant ideas came from those spontaneous brainstorms over samosas.
Truth Bomb: A happy designer is a creative designer. Period.
5. Quality Over Quantity (Trust Me on This One)
In the early days, we thought taking on more projects would mean faster growth. Spoiler: it doesn’t. Instead, we’ve learned to focus on fewer projects and pour our hearts into them. Not only does this keep our sanity intact, but it also ensures we deliver exceptional work that wows our clients.
Mantra: Underpromise, overdeliver, and nail it every time.
6. Project Management = Life Management
Juggling multiple projects? Welcome to the chaos club. The only thing that’s saved us from losing our minds is good project management. We’ve embraced tools that streamline everything—from timelines to team chats. Now, we actually meet deadlines without the midnight panic sessions.
Pro Move: Invest in tools that make work fun and manageable. Your future self will thank you.
7. Failures Are Just Plot Twists
Not every project has been a winner, and that’s okay. Failures suck (let’s be real), but they’ve also been the best teachers. We’ve taken every “oops” moment, dissected it, and turned it into a stepping stone. And guess what? We’re stronger for it.
Motto: Fail fast, learn faster.
8. Very Important – Your Team Is Your Superpower
This one’s close to my heart. The real heroes of this story are the amazing people I work with every day. Celebrating their wins (big or small), supporting their growth, and just being there has built a team that’s as passionate as it is talented.
Note to Self: Happy team, happy clients, happy me.
The Journey Continues…
Six years in, and it still feels like we’re just getting started. Running this studio has been an incredible adventure, and we’re more excited than ever for what’s ahead. Here’s to pushing boundaries, staying curious, and creating designs that make people smile.
If you’re on a similar journey, I hope these lessons help you in some way. And if you’re just starting out—buckle up! It’s going to be one heck of a ride. 😊Until next time, keep creating, designing & rocking!