Part 3: Takeaways and "What Ifs"...

Series: Build The Creative

Nov 06, 2024

👋 Dear creative. How are you doing today?

A dynamic that evolves with our life journeys

We don’t always need to work on projects, but is that the case for clients? When we are not yet able to step away from client-creative relationships, can we rely solely on projects? This dynamic evolves as our priorities and life events influence our choices, especially when our results prompt reality checks. It is a journey as I grow and mature as a creative. We will always have this client relationship because we are offering something to the market. Our audience can be small, medium, or large, but when they choose to buy from us, they become clients of our work. In this case, the nature of the relationship changes as well. At its core, it is our vision and not the one of someone else, that we are helping to build.

A journey towards creating once, for many…

✦ Did you miss part 2? It was all about The project and The Creative

☕ Grab some tea or coffee and let’s go!

3 takeaways
What if’s = opportunity
Creative awe

💪 3 takeaways from this needed encounter

We have explored the client and the project relationships with the creative. Both serve a creative’s growth. There are many takeaways, but I have chosen to share three ideas. They emphasize the encounter, the practice, and the impact. In both scenarios, we meet with ourselves, and others. Additionally, we discover new ways of working and a (re)definition of our priorities.

The unknown brief
Clients present briefs that will challenge you, and that is where growth occurs. It is exciting and revealing to explore new territories, products, and visions. It demands that you, as a creative, create space for this newness. As it often emerges from discomfort. No brief is easy, yet you can work through it with ease. Collaborating, listening, and asking questions are essential for creating unique and relevant solutions. One that serves not only your client but also the market. And it is a demanding task!
Unexpected creative solutions
When I enter a project or brief and discover new ways of creating, it signals that I am breaking a threshold in my process. For example, when I illustrate a topic I have never worked on, I am curious about which solutions will emerge. It is a surprise for myself and the project/client. Solutions are organic and reveal themselves as we work on them. Additionally, what seemed relevant months ago can quickly feel obsolete in the light of a new project or brief. It's great news!
Briefs and projects work together
Both are essential tools for any creative, especially today. If you work in a company and focus on climbing the professional ladder, the importance of briefs and projects applies. The dynamic of working "for," "with," and "above all odds on" is a resilient approach. Our creative lives are not just for one group of people. They must serve who we are becoming, who we are today, and who we used to be. We can let go of certain aspects and focus on what brings us joy and peace. Yet, I understand that the realities of life can threaten that balance. Integrating projects into your career can be a healing tool. Furthermore, client work can provide crucial stability while building your freelance or entrepreneurial business. And when unavoidable, both can work together to help you stay grounded. Either way, this dynamic builds your creative leadership and strengthens your "WHY."

"What ifs" are opportunities

What happens when you have clients but no projects? Or projects but no clients? Our creative journeys are like rollercoasters, with periods of intense activity and others where we need to (re)figure things out. No path is a straight line. In both situations, however, there is an opportunity to grow and (re)define who we want to become.

I have had conversations with peers and mentees who have found themselves in both scenarios—including myself. When I share how I navigate my projects, I highlight the opportunities within each case. Some younger creatives, fresh out of school, are doing everything to enter the job market. They face countless rejections and wonder what steps to take next.
When they realize the key lies in making intentional choices. Now, they can start envisioning their ideal client or dream job and consider how to serve them. It’s fascinating how stepping into someone else’s shoes can offer insight into your path. By applying their skills to projects for this ideal client, they practise problem-solving and revamp their portfolios. It’s a win-win! First, they learn to defend their ideas by applying them to real-world problems. Then gain experience through observing and understanding their target clients. And finally, they build a stronger foundation to stand out.
For those working in corporate jobs who feel detached from their creativity or uncertain about their purpose, it happens. A gap can be experienced within a role. I went through a similar phase while working in the cultural sector. Starting a personal project alongside your 9-to-5 can be transformative. It helps reignite your passion and builds new skills. Key elements if you want to grow in your current role. In my case, I quit my job after completing a project that helped me recover from burnout. That project pulled me out of the cultural sector and set me on my path as a creative + entrepreneur.
Life happens! Sometimes you may need to increase your client workload or fully commit to client work. Understanding that personal projects are always within reach is good news. you can always invite them into your creative life. Whether shifting between projects and clients or balancing both, you can find a sustainable rhythm that works for you. One that allows you to grow and mature as a creative.

What about you? How do you feel about this dynamic, and how has it shaped your creative journey?

That wraps up our first deep dive into the series Building the Creative. Many elements contribute to this journey, and we will explore more of them in the future.

🤩 Creative awe

🔥 The law of detachment (I loved this uplifting video by Clark Kegley. Detachment is subtle but so aligned with creative ease. He shares 3 great solutions to reframe our thinking when we notice we care too much. I especially loved his mantra about action).
🎨 A project can become a career (We all know Austin Kleon and his artistry. He has empowered us to dive into projects and allow them to redefine who we are as creatives. His books began as projects and have since become a part of his creative empire. You never know where a project can take you).
🚀 Bold journey (What happens when you transition from accounting to becoming a designer and illustrator? Discover the bold move of Lira, who is building her creative world, one drawing at a time).

I hope you enjoyed this new issue. Feel free to share it with peers, friends, and family, as it helps more people discover this space. Additionally, if you enjoy the content and believe in what I am building here, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Your support would mean the world to me and help fuel the vision. You can also find more ways to share the love here.

It was hard to choose just one song as I finish this piece, so I am leaving you with two: you can't go wrong with Malik Djoubi and Tiago Iorc.

Sending 🌱vibes.
Keva.