Gary Percival
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Gary Percival

The Importance of Being Stronger Than You Need To Be: A Designer's Perspective

Hey, Today, let's talk about a concept that's often overlooked but incredibly vital in our line of work: the importance of being stronger than you need to be. No, I'm not talking about bench-pressing your iMac or doing push-ups between client calls (although physical

By Gary Percival Oct 22, 2023
"Influence" written in white on a black fence over a railway track.

Why Your Ability to Influence Outcomes Matters in Freelancing

Influence isn't just about convincing people. It's about creating an atmosphere where your ideas are heard, respected, and ultimately acted upon.

By Gary Percival Oct 22, 2023
Person wearing mismatched sneakers, one red and one yellow

Against the Grain: How to Thrive as a Non-Conformist Freelancer

Jen soon realised conformity was her enemy and non-conformity was her friend.

By Gary Percival Oct 15, 2023
A furry brown alpaca pokes its head out curiously between weathered wooden planks against a bright blue sky backdrop.

Stay Humble, Stay Curious: The Secret Sauce for Thriving in the Freelance World

It's easy to lose your drive and get complacent when work is steady.

By Gary Percival Oct 8, 2023

Why Every Designer Needs a Margin of Safety: Preparing for the Unexpected

Hey, Today, let's dive into something often overlooked but absolutely crucial for anyone in the design world—having a "Margin of Safety." No, I'm not talking about the space around your design elements (although that's important too!). I'm talking about

By Gary Percival Oct 8, 2023
Calculator and coffee mug symbolize evaluating financial worth and rates, relating to not undervaluing oneself in business.

Are You Undervaluing Yourself? What Your Rates Might Be Telling Clients

The rates you charge speak volumes about the value you place on your skills, expertise, and time.

By Gary Percival Oct 1, 2023

The 'No-One-Cares' Mindset: Your Unexpected Ally in Creativity and Productivity

Hey, Have you ever found yourself on the brink of sharing your latest design, launching a new project, or contributing your voice in a meeting, only to be hit by a wave of anxiety? If you have encountered this, you are not alone. But what if I told you that

By Gary Percival Sep 24, 2023
Climbers face imposing snowy mountain, embodying designers' perseverance towards breakthrough achievements.

Designers, Don't Give Up: Every Attempt Brings You Closer to Your Breakthrough

Rejection. That dreaded word that every creative and designer will encounter again and again in their career.

By Gary Percival Sep 24, 2023
Young man in "If Only" shirt smiles, embodying perseverance towards design breakthroughs.

The "If Only'' Trap: How to Avoid the Happiness Mirage in Your Creative Career

We all have dreams about how our careers and lives could be better.

By Gary Percival Sep 17, 2023

Fear vs. Ambition: Closing the Gap Between Knowing and Doing

Hey, I will never forget the moment I decided to become a full-time freelancer. I was eager and ambitious to finally build my own business and pursue my creative passion on my own terms. But lurking beneath it all was a growing fear: fear that I would fail miserably, lose

By Gary Percival Sep 10, 2023
Person's jeans, calendar with colored blocks on screen - example of scheduling downtime for creativity to emerge.

Why Your Google Calendar Needs 'Blank Spaces' for Creative Growth

In our modern, bustling lifestyle, the temptation of a full agenda is often irresistible.

By Gary Percival Sep 10, 2023
Stack of self-help books, including "Mindset" by Carol S. Dweck, focusing on personal growth.

Why a Growth Mindset is Essential for Freelancers and Creatives

We all know people who seem to coast through life, never really pushing themselves or striving for more.

By Gary Percival Sep 3, 2023

Ditch the Gritted Teeth How to Find Joy in Your Work

Hey, Picture this: It's a crisp Monday morning, with the first rays of sunshine filtering through your workspace, and instead of dreading your to-do list, you're buzzing with excitement. You sip on your coffee, eager to dive into your projects. No more dragging feet, no more

By Gary Percival Aug 27, 2023
Neon sign: "Think about things differently", implying novel perspectives, not just more effort, drive breakthroughs.

Unlocking Performance Leaps: The Power of Trying Differently, Not Harder

You grind away at your craft day after day, pouring your heart and soul into improving.

By Gary Percival Aug 27, 2023
On a felt surface, a white badge with a single red love heart is displayed.

Look Beyond the Likes: A Fresh Perspective for Freelancers

The notification chime rings out, and you instinctively grab your phone.

By Gary Percival Aug 20, 2023
On a large white wall in a car park, the words "Come Together" are painted in black.

Authentic Connections: Engaging Prospects Without Losing Yourself

As freelancers, graphic designers, and other creatives, we are constantly striving to build meaningful connections with our clients, prospects, and fellow professionals. 

By Gary Percival Aug 13, 2023

Gary Percival

Welcome to 'Another Blog'—every Sunday, explore posts on freelance life, productivity, and design inspiration from my journey as a designer.

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Gary Percival
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Where I share what I have learnt as a freelance designer. Every other Sunday, you'll get inspiration from my experiences!