Persistence Beats Perfection
Persistence Beats Perfection
"Dream big. Start small. But most of all, start." –Simon Sinek. Why graphic designers and creative entrepreneurs should focus on getting shit done before getting shit perfect.
How does the quote above relate to me?
6 years ago, I lettered for the first time.
5 years ago, I started practicing lettering regularly.
4 years ago, I pursued a career as a self-employed lettering artist and designer.
3 years ago, I actually started to get some traction.
2 years ago, I finally stopped (always) doubting what I was doing.
1 year ago, I designed my first beer label.
Just this week, the first beer can I've ever designed was launched—a collaborative artist series can with Great Divide Brewing.
(From high school to now, I've been incredibly persistent. We've come a longgg way, folks #pukashells)
"Dream big"
When I fell in love with lettering 5 years ago, I thought to myself: "dang, that'd be awesome if I could do this full time." It was not only a farfetched dream, but also seemingly impossible because I was so damn bad at it.
"Start small"
I practiced lettering for years, just for fun, almost every single day. I posted about it on social media. I talked about it to friends, I lived and breathed letters...unknowingly, I was slowly planting seeds for my future. For a day like today. You've gotta show up and put in the time even when you don't wanna show up or put in the time.
"But most of all, start."
I never knew where I was going, but I didn't hang onto that. I just went. I chased the fog. I pursued an unrealized idea, and it led me down a pretty dreamy path.
How to apply
If you're feeling stuck or stifled, I encourage you to stop overthinking everything. Just start taking action. Through your progress and through your process you will start to uncover new stones, and in those moments you can always slightly adjust the path you're on.
This project with Great Divide is truly a dream project. And, contrary to what it might seem like on Instagram, this project and this opportunity didn't happen overnight. I've been busting my bunz for yeaarrrsss now: networking, practicing, learning, trying, failing...sometimes the process seems tireless. But it's through that process that I've found myself doing the projects I could only dream of just a few years ago.
If you're trying to make a career in the commercial arts, you need to be prepared to work hard. Work when others aren't working. Focus hard on working smart. Don't think you're being smart by working just hard.
Moving Forward
Literally anyone can do this. I was a "decent" art/design student in college. Middle of the road. Hell, I still consider myself quite mediocre. However, what I lack in skill or talent I sure as shit try to make up for it in personality, grit and determination.
Put in the time, folks. We're all playing the long game, but the sooner you get started, the sooner you'll find yourself drawin' letters and crushin' brews.
As always, hit me with any questions or thoughts that you might have! For more, get 1-on-1 coaching or mentorship. Schedule a call.
WHAT'S ON THE PLATE FOR NEXT WEEK:
The Importance of Business Over Creative: Why getting better at your craft might be a waste of your time.
This is a topic I've preached for years, and I am inspired to write about it after my internet-bud, Melinda Livesey, recently did a micro-IG series on the topic.
