5 answers
Clory
Student
3
Questions
Asked
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What career should I focus on?
I have doubts if I want to build a career as a digital artist or as a graphic designer. If I can't choose what career I want to pursue in life, should I pick what I love doing or the one that is the most profitable and in demand?
I did some research and I think nowadays there's more demand for graphic designers than artists. Digital art is a market more saturated than graphic design. There is also to consider all the problems related to AI platforms like Midjourney or DALL-E.
This makes me think that, even if I like drawing, maybe it's not a profitable business like it was in the past. So I'm scared to take this risk.
However having these thoughts, I can't commit to anything and I keep procrastinating because I'm too scared to take action. Do you know something that could help me choose? Do you have any advice to give to stop this problem?
I've tried doing both these past months, but I noticed that I couldn't. My plan was to study graphic design in the morning and practice drawing in the afternoon, but it was too much to handle for me. I had no energy left in the afternoon or I had other personal tasks to do. After doing this for some weeks, I started waking up tired and some days I skipped my morning routine. I was also exhausted about switching topics to learn everyday.
That's why I suppose I need to choose one and stick with it. Do you have any advice to suggest? What do you think I should do?
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5 answers
Roel Ramon
Product Management and Development
39
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Roel’s Answer
Here's a piece of friendly advice: start by pinpointing what matters most to you. Once you've got that sorted, it's time to discover your true passion. Remember, every career path can lead to success and financial stability. But when you pursue a career that truly ignites your passion, you'll find joy in your work and produce exceptional results. This approach is your ticket to achieving your goals and tasting the sweet fruit of success you've been craving.
Kenny Mazza
Financial Analyst
3
Answers
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
Kenny’s Answer
Well first, its great that you've narrowed it down to two things! I would say to make a pros and cons list to help you decide. That might help, but then what really might help is trying to find digital artist and graphic designer who is a few years into their career and reach out to them and ask them about their day to day. You can either make a LinkedIn profile and try to find people that way or you can go to a local college or university and ask if they have any alumni that they can put you in contact with. Don't be afraid to do this, they will love to help you!
Thanks Kenny for the great tips you gave me! I'm surely going to try what you said. I already have some professionals I can reach out to!
Clory
Adam Quattlebaum
Senior IT Specialist
20
Answers
Montgomery, Alabama
Updated
Adam’s Answer
Roel's response is excellent. Something I've done to determine which path I should take in my career is to focus on an area for one month and then a different area the next month. If I don't have passion to focus on something for an entire month, then I definitely don't want to do it as a career just for the money. Money can follow any passion as the long as the skills exist and you have some patience.
Good luck!
Take a free online course on graphic design.
Draw whenever your heart desires. Draw for the artist in you vs pay.
Keep learning.
Be patient.
Good luck!
Adam recommends the following next steps:
Thanks Adam for your reply! You give me something I can do right away, so I can stop procrastinating. I'm definitely going to try what you say! Thanks for your kind words.
Clory
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3768
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Enhance and make it encouraging:
Embrace the rhythm of the day, just as I did when I was a dietician nutritionist. In the early hours, I would rise and breathe life into nutrition software programs. As the sun climbed higher, I'd carry these programs to the specialist center, using them as tools to consult clients. The software would craft personalized menus, and then it was back to my inner tech enthusiast at nightfall to merge the two worlds.
Now, imagine this - you could probably create algorithms that generate vivid images. I once created a program that featured sky images brought to life by a timer. It would signal the use of red, green, and blue hues, painting these colors across the sky and the computer screen, one line at a time, reminiscent of the old-fashioned days with a cathode ray tube.
So, seize the day! In the morning, immerse yourself in the world of graphic digital design, and as the evening rolls in, let your creativity flow in the realm of art.
Embrace the rhythm of the day, just as I did when I was a dietician nutritionist. In the early hours, I would rise and breathe life into nutrition software programs. As the sun climbed higher, I'd carry these programs to the specialist center, using them as tools to consult clients. The software would craft personalized menus, and then it was back to my inner tech enthusiast at nightfall to merge the two worlds.
Now, imagine this - you could probably create algorithms that generate vivid images. I once created a program that featured sky images brought to life by a timer. It would signal the use of red, green, and blue hues, painting these colors across the sky and the computer screen, one line at a time, reminiscent of the old-fashioned days with a cathode ray tube.
So, seize the day! In the morning, immerse yourself in the world of graphic digital design, and as the evening rolls in, let your creativity flow in the realm of art.
Thanks for your reply! I'm grateful you took the time to answer to my question. I'll try to dream big and achieve my goals! Your advice was very inspiring.
Clory
Jacob Taylor
Production Manager
523
Answers
Stafford, Virginia
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Choosing a career path can be a challenging decision, and it's common to have doubts, especially when considering the balance between passion and practicality. Here are some steps and advice to help you make an informed decision:
1. **Self-Assessment**: Take the time for self-reflection. Identify your core strengths, interests, and values. Consider what truly excites and motivates you in both digital art and graphic design.
2. **Research and Industry Trends**:
- Explore the current job market for both digital artists and graphic designers. Consider factors like demand, competition, and potential income.
- Keep in mind that while digital art may have a more saturated market, it can also offer niche opportunities in areas like concept art, character design, or illustration.
3. **Talk to Professionals**: Reach out to professionals in both fields. Ask them about their career paths, experiences, and the pros and cons of their chosen careers. Their insights can provide valuable guidance.
4. **Skills and Commitment**:
- Assess your current skill levels in both digital art and graphic design. Which one are you more proficient in?
- Consider your energy levels and personal preferences. If studying both exhausts you, it might be more practical to focus on one.
5. **Combining Passions**:
- Explore opportunities to combine your interests. For example, you could pursue a career in graphic design with a focus on digital art-related projects.
- Keep in mind that many graphic designers incorporate illustration and digital art into their work, so there's room for overlap.
6. **Realistic Expectations**:
- Understand that both careers may require time and effort to establish yourself. Success in either field often comes gradually.
- Consider creating a financial plan to manage any potential challenges while you're building your career.
7. **Test and Experiment**:
- Before making a final decision, continue to experiment and refine your skills in both areas. This will help you gain clarity.
- Consider taking on small freelance projects or personal projects to get a feel for what working in each field entails.
8. **Seek Guidance**:
- Talk to a career counselor or mentor who can provide personalized advice based on your unique situation and goals.
9. **Set Clear Goals**:
- Once you've made a decision, set clear and achievable goals for your chosen career path. Having a roadmap can help you stay focused and motivated.
10. **Overcoming Procrastination**:
- If fear of making the wrong choice is causing procrastination, remember that it's okay to make adjustments along the way. Careers are rarely linear, and you can pivot if needed.
- Break your goals into smaller, manageable tasks to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
11. **Time Management**:
- If you choose one path, create a structured schedule that allows for dedicated learning and practice time. Balance is key to avoid burnout.
12. **Mentally Prepare for Challenges**:
- Understand that both paths will come with challenges. Prepare yourself mentally for setbacks and keep a growth mindset.
Ultimately, the choice between pursuing your passion (digital art) and following a more practical path (graphic design) is deeply personal. Consider your long-term happiness and fulfillment, as well as your financial stability. Keep in mind that success often comes from dedication, continuous learning, and adapting to changing circumstances. Don't be afraid to make a decision, as it's a step toward your future, and you can always adjust your course as you gain experience and clarity.
1. **Self-Assessment**: Take the time for self-reflection. Identify your core strengths, interests, and values. Consider what truly excites and motivates you in both digital art and graphic design.
2. **Research and Industry Trends**:
- Explore the current job market for both digital artists and graphic designers. Consider factors like demand, competition, and potential income.
- Keep in mind that while digital art may have a more saturated market, it can also offer niche opportunities in areas like concept art, character design, or illustration.
3. **Talk to Professionals**: Reach out to professionals in both fields. Ask them about their career paths, experiences, and the pros and cons of their chosen careers. Their insights can provide valuable guidance.
4. **Skills and Commitment**:
- Assess your current skill levels in both digital art and graphic design. Which one are you more proficient in?
- Consider your energy levels and personal preferences. If studying both exhausts you, it might be more practical to focus on one.
5. **Combining Passions**:
- Explore opportunities to combine your interests. For example, you could pursue a career in graphic design with a focus on digital art-related projects.
- Keep in mind that many graphic designers incorporate illustration and digital art into their work, so there's room for overlap.
6. **Realistic Expectations**:
- Understand that both careers may require time and effort to establish yourself. Success in either field often comes gradually.
- Consider creating a financial plan to manage any potential challenges while you're building your career.
7. **Test and Experiment**:
- Before making a final decision, continue to experiment and refine your skills in both areas. This will help you gain clarity.
- Consider taking on small freelance projects or personal projects to get a feel for what working in each field entails.
8. **Seek Guidance**:
- Talk to a career counselor or mentor who can provide personalized advice based on your unique situation and goals.
9. **Set Clear Goals**:
- Once you've made a decision, set clear and achievable goals for your chosen career path. Having a roadmap can help you stay focused and motivated.
10. **Overcoming Procrastination**:
- If fear of making the wrong choice is causing procrastination, remember that it's okay to make adjustments along the way. Careers are rarely linear, and you can pivot if needed.
- Break your goals into smaller, manageable tasks to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
11. **Time Management**:
- If you choose one path, create a structured schedule that allows for dedicated learning and practice time. Balance is key to avoid burnout.
12. **Mentally Prepare for Challenges**:
- Understand that both paths will come with challenges. Prepare yourself mentally for setbacks and keep a growth mindset.
Ultimately, the choice between pursuing your passion (digital art) and following a more practical path (graphic design) is deeply personal. Consider your long-term happiness and fulfillment, as well as your financial stability. Keep in mind that success often comes from dedication, continuous learning, and adapting to changing circumstances. Don't be afraid to make a decision, as it's a step toward your future, and you can always adjust your course as you gain experience and clarity.
Thank you Jacob for your reply! I'll think about what you've written to make my decision.
Clory