The Art of Earning It
Everyone’s creative path is unique. Some step straight into freelance freedom; others carve out spaces in niche branding studios. But many of us, myself included, earned our stripes in the pressure cooker world of the ad agency.
My journey began at DDB Needham. And I mean literally at the bottom. My days started in the gutter, doing finished art and often ending with frantic drives delivering press ads moments before deadline. That hustle was real. Every step upwards...S$%t Kicker, Graphic Designer, Art Director, then eventually becoming a Creative Director and a Shareholder. It was hard earned.
Yet, I wouldn't trade that experience for anything.
Advertising taught me things no textbook or quick online tutorial could...resilience, discipline, presenting under pressure, communicating complex ideas clearly, and managing timesheets like second nature. More importantly, it taught me humility and hustle qualities that have become the foundation of my career.
Today, our industry is evolving. Small studios, independent collectives, and freelancers dominate the landscape. Without traditional agency hierarchies, how do you know when you’ve "made it"? Do you reward yourself a new title after clocking the hours? Or do you start at the top and learn along the way?
“There’s immense value in climbing from the gutter to the top. That journey, gives you character that no instant promotion could ever offer”
The truth is, there's no shortcut to experience. Promotions and titles come easy, but the real KPI isn’t a fancy job title...it's what you’ve learned from being tested by tight briefs, demanding clients, impossible deadlines, and seasoned mentors.
Whether you choose the agency route, branding studio, digital shop, or independent freelance life, my advice stays the same...suck it all up. Say 'yes' to difficult projects. Embrace the grind. Because the pressure, the chaos, the constant challenge...they shape not just your skillset, but your entire creative perspective.
There’s immense value in climbing from the gutter to the top. That journey, gives you character that no instant promotion could ever offer.
Embrace it. You won’t regret it.
