I have been a graphic designer for eleven years now and I can assure you it is not easy, especially if you are freelancing.

In my experience, there are always ups and downs in terms of income and client experience.

The new year is starting and everybody is thinking about their new year resolution. Some people might want to get healthy, go to the gym, go on a diet. I think we designers should aim for some different resolutions.

I promise you, these resolutions will make your life so much easier in the future. Here are a few ideas for new years resolutions for designers and creatives in general:

Work on your passive income

I can not emphasize enough how important this resolution is. Working on ways to make some passive income will help in the slow months when client work is not happening. You can sell templates, make t-shirts, sell posters or even blog.

Start a blog

Starting a blog as a graphic designer is a wonderful way to express your creative ideas, share your experience and help other designers.

I wish I had started a blog when I started working as a graphic designer.

Writing about what you know but also about what you want to learn can only help you learn more.

Start an email list

An email list is a great way to either keep in touch with your clients or build a follow-up among other creatives.

Email lists are great marketing tools for every creative.

You can easily start yours today by just adding a newsletter form to your website.

Work with clients you love

If there is one thing I learned is that it is important to carefully choose the clients you want to work with. Yes, as a creative you also get to pick and choose who you are working with.

I know that sometimes there is a need for money and can push us to work for clients that do not resonate with. That's why I am encouraging you to start some passive income.

Having the option to not work with a bad client is a wonderful gift.

Reduce your expenses

I know, I know. That new tool, that new subscription will help you with your design and work.

This is another lesson I learned myself. Reducing expenses will put more money in your pocket.

So, in the new year take a look at your expenses and see what you don't use or you do not use that often and cancel that subscription.

I hope this article helped and inspired you to think about your new year from a different perspective.