Designers' Blog

I think all professional creative-types would agree, the toughest client we will ever have, is ourself. This dilemma stretches across all creative industries. From architects to web designers, whether adding on a family room or designing a new logo, when “You” are the client, the project takes on another whole level of hell. I am not sure why this is. I don’t know if any one does. The best solution I have found is to discover what is your creative personality.

Are you the methodical-type? Everything nice and in order, you like schedules, strict rules on how long things take and to produce and hardly waivers from those rules.

Are you the Closer-type? When everything hangs on the success of a project, this is when you produce your best stuff. However when the pressure is low, projects are remedial, generating those great ideas become a struggle.

Or are you somewhere in between?

The goal of discovering your personality type is to foster your ideal design environment for your personal projects. If you are the methodical type, don’t try to squeeze in personal projects to your already busy schedule. You will feel rushed and pressured and ultimately hate the project and the results. Treat those projects as you would a normal client. Allow the appropriate time to complete the project. The same holds true for the closer-types. Don’t give yourself forever to complete the project. Pick a day on the calendar that is has to be done, and stick to it. If you need “real” pressure, add something to make it. For example, if you are re-branding your company, schedule a tradeshow within a couple months to display your new brand. I know thats a bit extreme and costly just to force your creative hand, but you get the idea. In either event, knowing who you are and what generates those creative juices will help keep personal projects somewhat more enjoyable!

posted on: Tuesday, January 20, 2009