Lessons from My First Year as a Solo Entrepreneur
I can’t believe it’s been almost a year since I started my journey as a solo entrepreneur. Being my own boss and establishing myself professionally is something I’ve always aspired to do, which is why last year, I finally took the chance and launched my design studio, ISxStudios, and I feel incredibly privileged and grateful to have done so.
Over the past eleven months, working as solo with various stakeholders on a variety of projects has been an incredibly rewarding for me. I’ve embraced this time with gratitude, focusing on balancing my physical and mental well-being rather than simply hustling through tasks. This approach has allowed me to truly appreciate my work and find fulfillment beyond just meeting the deadlines.
Along the way, I’ve also gained some of the most valuable insights for thriving as a solo entrepreneur in this dynamic world of design. Below I’ve shared some of the lessons I’ve learned being a solo entrepreneur for almost a year now:
- Flexibility
Being the sole worker on various projects has taught me just how important it is to stay adaptable. With rapid changes in the markets, user demands, and technological advancements, working as a solo entrepreneur pushed me to adapt quickly, pivot ideas, and iterate on my services. I’ve learned, sometimes the hard way , that it’s all about experimenting, refining things as I go, and being ready to change direction when needed.
- Resilience Is Key
Another major takeaway for me is the importance of being resilient with what I do. With constant challenges and setbacks, it’s crucial as a designer to keep pushing forward, even when things don’t go as planned. This journey has taught me to embrace failures, knowing that not everything will work out perfectly, and to look forward to the next challenges optimistically.
- Learning to Be a Strategic Jack-of-All-Trades
I’ve always considered myself to be a jack-of-all-trades and master of none, as I’ve experimented with various aspects of design over the years. However, working solo has expanded my horizons into accounting, marketing, product management, etc. These experiences have made me more versatile, but I’m eager to learn even more.
Also, I recognize the value of seeking help from another brilliant designer when needed. There’s so much talent out there, and synergising on a project to provide best results for clients is the quintessence of any designer’s work.
- Importance of Time Management
I can’t emphasize enough how being a solo entrepreneur has taught me the importance of efficient time management. With deadlines and client meetings, things often come down to staying organized and keeping everything on track. Prioritizing tasks and learning to say “no” to distractions or unproductive opportunities has given me more control over my life and helped me become much better at filtering how I spend my time.
- Time for Experimentation and Further Education
For me, this has been a win. As a lifelong learner and experimenter, I have the flexibility in my schedule to explore advanced topics and experiment within the realm of design.
I’ve been learning how to be a better design thinker through online courses and attending conferences around the globe, which allow me to connect with like-minded designers.
Furthermore, I’ve had the opportunity to experiment a number of advanced deign tools, including AI tools, which have made my work easier and more efficient.
- Being Consistent
To be frank, consistency is something I still struggle with at times. However, time and again, I gather and push myself to stay consistent and build momentum over time.
My goal is to carry the consistency I’ve developed into the next year as well. Let’s hope for the very best. (*fingers crossed*)
- Confidence Grows Over Time
As I’ve learned to take control over my professional life, I’ve become more confident in my abilities. Even the smallest wins, in the form of client satisfaction or my ability to come up with a new idea, help reinforce my belief in my ability to run and grow my business.
Of course, there’s still plenty to learn and work to be done, but with each challenge I overcome, I feel a bit stronger and more prepared for the next one.
- Financial Literacy Matters
Lastly, being your own money manager isn’t just about earning, it is also about how to save and plan efficiently for an unpredictable future.
Above I’ve shared some of my takeaways from being a solo entrepreneur for a year, and I’m sure I’ll continue to learn more as I move forward on this journey. I feel incredibly lucky and grateful to have met a lot of inspiring people along the way, and I hope to maintain this consistency in the future.
Until next time, ciao!
