Creative Advice for Creatives
Noun Project is one of my go-to resource for design inspo, logo references, and icon development, and they’ve got a subscriber-worthy blog to boot. Earlier this year, Noun Project released some great, creative advice that I found both reaffirming as a designer and inspiring as a small business owner. In their post, seventeen leading designers and illustrators—ranging from muralists to creative coaches—shared their most valuable insights, and despite their varied backgrounds, a few themes rose to the top.
1. Progress Over Perfection
Many creatives emphasize starting before you feel “ready.” Forget perfection—curiosity, experimentation, and frequent creation are what build real skill. Passion projects, consistent sharing, and a willingness to make mistakes all open doors to new opportunities and client work.
Photo by Nubelson Fernandes on Unsplash
Creativity grows through curiosity, authenticity, connection, and wellbeing. Keep creating, keep experimenting—and take care of the people behind the work.
2. Don’t Box Yourself In
The pros encourage exploring freely rather than chasing trends. Developing a unique voice, creating what genuinely brings joy, and taking risks all strengthen personal style and help attract the right kind of clients.
3. Understand Design Thinking
Great design is more than aesthetics. It requires empathy, storytelling, and thoughtful ideas that resonate emotionally with the audience—qualities that remain essential even in an AI-driven world.
4. Communicate Clearly
Strong communication can be as important as strong visuals. Whether presenting work like a narrative, managing expectations, or cold emailing potential clients, clear and proactive communication builds better partnerships and more opportunities.
5. Protect Your Mental Health
Finally, the designers remind us that creativity thrives when you take care of yourself. Avoid comparison traps, don’t rely on social media validation, spend time outdoors, and set boundaries to prevent burnout.
Creativity grows through curiosity, authenticity, connection, and wellbeing. Keep creating, keep experimenting—and take care of the people behind the work.