She Strengthens

Breaking Free from the Cubicle

Leaving the comfort of a traditional 9-to-6 job was a daunting decision, but it was one I’ll never regret. As I reflect on my journey, I’ve come to realize that working for myself has been a game-changer. It’s forced me to develop a sense of responsibility, professionalism, and self-motivation that I never knew I was capable of.

The Freedom to Grow

As a designer, I’ve had to become my own toughest critic, setting goals, deadlines, and pushing myself to stay motivated. I’ve learned to cultivate a degree of responsibility and professionalism that I never had to before. Today, I’m a more well-rounded professional, capable of handling tasks that would have previously intimidated me.

Lessons Learned

One of the most significant lessons I’ve learned is the importance of efficient communication. Without the structure of a traditional office, I’ve had to adapt to communicating with my team remotely. It’s been a challenge, but I’ve learned to be direct, precise, and brief in my interactions.

The Dangers of Overly-Long Meetings

I’ve also come to appreciate the value of time. Long, unnecessary meetings can be soul-sucking, and I’ve learned to prioritize my time wisely. With a small team, every minute counts, and I’ve had to become more intentional about how I spend my time.

Conquering Forgetfulness

Working for myself has also forced me to confront my natural forgetfulness. Without the constant reminders of a traditional office environment, I’ve had to develop strategies to stay on track and remember important tasks.

Overcoming the 3pm Slump

Another challenge I’ve faced is the infamous 3pm slump. Without the pressure of a looming deadline or a team to hold me accountable, it’s easy to get complacent. However, I’ve learned to push through the slump by taking breaks, setting goals, and finding ways to stay motivated.

The Power of Organization

Finally, I’ve come to realize the importance of file organization. As a creative professional, being organized is crucial, and I’ve developed systems and strategies to keep my files and projects in order.

The Joy of Collaboration

One of the biggest surprises for me has been the joy of working on group projects. I used to dread collaboration, but now I thrive on it. I love working with my team to create something greater than the sum of its parts.

A New Chapter

In conclusion, leaving a traditional office setting has been a liberating experience. It’s forced me to grow, adapt, and develop skills I never knew I had. I’m grateful for the lessons I’ve learned and the person I’ve become as a result.