If you're a regular reader of this newsletter, you'll know that I typically discuss design or business-related topics to provide valuable insights or information. However, today I want to talk about something that genuinely pisses me off (apologies for the bad language) in the hopes that it resonates with those of you who've have experienced something similar. See, when I started out in this industry, I had no idea I would get to where I am now, and I’m proud of that.
But one unexpected lesson I've learned along the way is that not everyone wants to see you do well. This is because some may perceive your achievements as a reflection of their own shortcomings, (it shouldn’t- this is a self-worth issue). Surprisingly, this is particularly true for those closest to you. I actually often find my biggest supporters are those who I barely know (aka you guys and I am eternally grateful for that 🧡). I think one of the reasons this happens is because when you deviate from the norm—like building your own business—it becomes difficult for people to relate to you. While that's understandable, the judgement for being different is not…
I often find myself listening to others who try to impose their outlook and way of life onto me.
🗣️ I’m boring because I don’t drink alcohol.
🗣️ I’m judged because I go to bed early.
🗣️ and I’m wasting my youth because I don’t have a good ‘work-life balance'.
I understand that all this 'advice' comes from a place of love, but it lacks context. People give advice from their perspective. So, the person who hates their job is bound to tell you to work less. But what they fail to consider is my feelings towards work. And the truth is, I often struggle to sleep at night because of all the exciting business ideas circulating in my mind. This judgment bothered me for a long time, but I'm writing this newsletter because I’ve finally accepted it. I'm okay with the judgment.
I'm okay with the opinions that lack context.
And I'm okay with not fitting in.
I don’t need to justify my way of life because, in the end, I’m doing what I want to do.
And I can't think of a better way to spend my 20’s than building my future and being able to say I helped countless other designers along the way. So, to those who feel like outsiders, get labelled as weird, or just don’t fit in, remember you’re on a different path, don't expect others to understand. It took me five years to realise this, and I hope if you're in a similar situation, this email makes you realise you are not alone.
│“When you do what others won't, you can live how others can't”
I’m rooting for you all 💫
Abi 😊