As an illustrator, I've learned a thing or two over the years. Some of which, would have been helpful to know early on.
Being a freelance illustrator isn’t just about the art, in fact there are a lot of other factors that go into this creative profession.
Read MoreThe best way to avoid falling down the Instagram rabbit hole of mindless scrolling... is to set some time limits.
And I'm not talking about relying on willpower alone. Instagram has made it easy to do on the platform with a few clicks. Learn more about Activity / Time Spent features on the Instagram app
Read MoreRepeat after me, an algorithm is not the boss of YOU.
Trying to navigate an algorithm is as fulfilling as being on a hamster wheel - it's frustrating and gets you nowhere. Believe me, I understand the frustration. Instagram has changed dramatically since I joined in 2012. Like many people, Instagram had me feeling disheartened. I would post and have little engagement. It seems that folks aren't always social on social media. We can place blame on the villainous algorithm limiting the people who see our posts, but what about the folks who do see it? Why is engagement low and how can we connect with an audience better?
Read MoreI challenged myself to more drawing time on the go using Procreate and discovered some new ways to streamline my creative process and flex my illustration muscles.
Whether you’re a Procreate newbie feeling overwhelmed by all the bells and whistles or you've spent time in Procreate but appreciate handy tips... then check out my latest post on The Simply Creative Blog that discusses my top 7 Procreate Tips and doles up some creative advice to try out as well.
Read MoreAs a creative small business owner, I need to find my way out of low-energy or unproductive days so that I can get things done and hit my deadlines. The best way (for me) to do this is by understanding the purpose behind the task. If it’s a client deadline… well that’s easy, I want to get paid and make the client happy. But what if it’s a personal goal? Then you need to know YOUR WHY because Passion and Purpose fuel PRODUCTIVITY.
Read MoreIt’s incredibly important to realize that rest time is just as important as work time. They are meant to work together, to keep our minds (and lives ) happy and healthy. This is why learning to hit the pause button (and the Stop one too) is an important skill to have.
My best tip for ensuring that you have more restful moments in your day is to schedule time for it. Adding some tranquility to your day will allow your brain the R&R restoration that it craves.
Read MoreRejection stings, but realistically, it’s part of being a working creative. It doesn’t matter if you’re an artist, designer, photographer, illustrator, or writer - a piece of your heart is ingrained in what you create. Rejection feels bad, understandably so. The trick is how to move beyond feeling upset so that you can get back to creating. Your livelihood depends on being adaptable and able to consistently market and pitch your work.
Read MoreBeing able to sink into a highly-focused creative zone is one of the best things you can give yourself. Sometimes, it's as simple as a change of perspective and knowing how to organize a more optimal environment for you to create from.
Read MoreAnswers to some of the more common questions that I have received about illustration, freelancing, and finding clients.
Read MoreThrough questions and exercises in the workbook, you will be able to turn ideas into goals to inspire more confidence and fulfillment in your creative pursuits. Finding your Creative Path helps you align with your goals over a 12-month period using seasonal planning. Perfect to start the new year with… or anytime you want to make a change and chart a new creative path.
Read MoreBeing a creative freelancer takes equal parts talent, determination, and moxy. You have to be able to dust yourself off and keep going, be willing to try new things, and discover what works best for you. Well, let me save you some time by sharing a few things that I’ve learned.
I’ve just published, Self-Promotion for Creatives 🎉 over on Skillshare so that you can watch it at your leisure… and in less time than your average Netflix show to boot! Great for creatives just starting out or freelancers learning to try a new promotional trick (or two).
Read MoreAs a creative freelancer or entrepreneur, it’s easy to get caught up in the busy work of planning vs doing. Planning is important, but it's only one step in the process. If you don't move beyond that step, planning slides into procrastination. And really, don’t we have enough distractions in our daily lives (um…hello social media and a pandemic) to not become sidelined with continual planning. So don’t get bogged down with planning, move beyond that step, and learn to enjoy the whole creative journey.
Read MoreThe illustrator in me wishes I could wave a magic wand and make things better… but we don’t live in a Disney movie, lovely as they are. Instead, I’ll share 10 things that I often do to feel more light-hearted, productive, and hopeful.
Read MoreBefore you can stand out, you need to be willing to show up for yourself and create - through the good, bad and everything in between. Read about the 7 suggestions that I have to motivate you to create and set yourself apart.
Read MoreWhat makes a successful creative? Hmmm... talent, insane art skills, boatloads of happy clients, and an expert level of Photoshop. Well, sure, all those things are helpful but I want to focus on 7 qualities that ALL successful creatives have.
Read MoreIf you are looking for inspiration, look no further than these five, talented women who are sharing their art, thoughts, and positive nature with the world.
Read MoreAs a freelancer you will need to navigate both busy and quiet business periods. Knowing how to deal with these extremes in your freelance business, will help you become a more confident freelancer. Because bottom line, you don’t have to stop when business is slow. By staying productive you will be better prepared for new opportunities when they arise.
Read MoreWhy I am grateful to live as a Freelance Illustrator and how you can cultivate a sense of gratitude in your life.
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