24 - Girl on Fire

I have already spent a portion of this year wondering what I do, who I do it for and the worth in all of that. I feel that in a pecking order of things that are important to people (in England, I have a feeling it is very different in the US from the blogs I follow) that creative services are way down the list. I don't mean to sound negative, quite the opposite in fact. I'm hopeful that I can help people see the value in being well branded (and how it adds value to their business offering), the pride in announcing their little ones arrival with something a bit fancy (you created that tiny being, welcome them to the world in style) or setting the tone for an event with the invites (which are pinned on peoples boards and then kept as keepsakes, more important than a dress or flowers in that sense) and giving something special to someone who is going to spend a considerable amount on attending your event.

I recently took an ECourse with Braid (who I can not speak highly enough of) that is called "Dream Customer Catching" and it opened me up to the idea that my dream clients are out there. The projects I dream of and love to do and benefit from not only financially but personally and professionally too. I get more of a buzz from creating something that fits someone perfectly and enriches their being than I do watching the pound signs clock up (but hey, the bills still need paying right!). Its all got me thinking about what I want to do, and who for, and how I can do it best and continue to get better. All too often I hit on the dream client that has no budget (who I'd bet probably make more than I do as a result of the great branding job I did for them, perhaps I should work on a commission basis?!) or uninspiring jobs that pay the bills but leave me feeling like I lost a little bit of my soul while doing them. I have every faith that the right clients are out there and even though they may not have much of a budget, that they will see that really, looks are everything. I've spent time panicking that the downturn might mean an end to the branding projects I love so much and event invitations (etc.) but I think now, more than ever, its time to get the edge. To look more professional and clear on your product offering or service than ever before. To make your event or announcement sing from the top of the roofs and call people in like a moth to a bright light. At the same time I have realised the same thing for myself. I spend a lot of time helping others be great that I allow myself little time to see what I've become. In the coming months I'll be posting retrospective Alfies Studio projects that have really shaped what I do and who I do it for, and using my past to realise my expertise and what I am truly great at and take it to the next level. I am ready. Most of all I love that I get to be creative AND get paid for it... I am the girl on fire*.

*I have become a bit of a Hunger Games addict and read all three books in a week (had them for Christmas). I don't want to run around off-ing people to survive but I have a sudden desire to take archery lessons and become the go-getter that Katniss is. This year I plan on working on strength and determination and giving myself time and space to let those things breathe. It would have all looked very different had Katniss got two children in tow I'm sure...