Podcast

“I love thinking about my work all the time. It doesn’t feel like an imposition—it feels like the privilege of doing something I’m obsessed with.” When my friend said this to me during dinner recently, it struck a chord. We’re constantly receiving subtle messages that our dedication to our creative businesses is somehow unhealthy, that our ambition should be modest rather than magnificent. But what if that passion—that healthy obsession—is exactly what creates exceptional work? Here’s why embracing your natural enthusiasm might be the most powerful business decision you can make, and how to stop unconsciously limiting your potential.

I’ve been noticing something interesting happening in design right now – while AI rushes forward, there’s this equally powerful pull back towards handcrafted work and connection. But, rather than feeling pressured to chase every trend (who has the time?), I’m sharing which ones actually matter for small creative businesses, and how they might complement what you already do brilliantly. These insights from leading design studios reveal opportunities that play to your natural strengths rather than working against them – and isn’t that the kind of trend worth paying attention to?

Feeling like everyone else in your industry is somehow doing it better? That nagging sense of comparison doesn’t just affect how you feel—it can fundamentally limit what you build. BUT, when you focus on your natural strengths rather than industry “shoulds,” comparison naturally fades. Discover how to recognise your unique advantages, build systems that support the way you naturally work, and create a business that stands out not through marketing tricks, but through the authentic value only you can offer.

As you’re creating great work for clients, receiving payments, building a solid reputation… yet, somehow you’re feeling like you’re not a “real” business owner? This disconnect isn’t just about confidence—it reflects a deeper identity gap that affects how we price our work, communicate with clients, and ultimately grow our businesses. Learn how embracing your dual identity as both creative and entrepreneur can transform not just how others see you, but how you see yourself—without compromising your creative values or unique approach.

That half-finished project you’re hesitant to share on social media? It might be exactly what your audience really wants to see. When I asked creative entrepreneurs what stops them from sharing behind-the-scenes content, their answers revealed something deeper than algorithm concerns: perfectionism, fear of judgment, and doubt about whether their everyday work is interesting enough. These barriers don’t just affect your social media presence—they can limit your entire business potential. Here’s why your “ordinary” work matters more than you think, and practical ways to break through these invisible barriers.