Embracing Change: A Journey from Freelance Design to Real-World Connections
As a seasoned freelance UX designer, I’ve built a respectable career, often thriving on a handful of high-paying projects each year. However, over time, I’ve noticed a troubling shift in my passion and enthusiasm for the industry. The changing landscape, particularly with the overwhelming rise of AI and aggressive marketing tactics, has left me feeling burnt out and disconnected from my initial motivations.
In recent months, I’ve found myself in a recurring narrative during client projects—an outsider who swoops in to address issues but is ultimately left feeling like the unexpected critic. The process became frustratingly impersonal, as my designs were often relegated to the background, seldom getting a chance to make the impact I had envisioned.
The essence of UX design, for me, has always been about engaging with users and providing solutions to their everyday challenges. Yet lately, it feels more like I’m being asked to magically resolve sudden drops in sales without any context or understanding of the underlying problems. The focus on analytics and performance metrics has almost overshadowed the core of what makes design meaningful.
As a freelancer, I’ve grappled with an increasing sense of isolation. The relentless hustle and the desire to keep up with trends and technology seem never-ending, and my excitement for tackling new projects has dwindled. Perhaps I just haven’t found the right clients, but that uncertainty has taken a toll on my enthusiasm.
Recognizing the need for a change, I’ve signed a contract to manage a small snack bar—an endeavor that harks back to my roots in catering. This leap is a conscious effort to reconnect with the tangible world and to work directly with people again. The human interactions that a digital-only career lacks are something I deeply crave.
I’m excited to step away from the screens that so often define my daily routine. It’s clear to me that prolonged exposure to digital environments isn’t fulfilling my need for genuine connection.
As I embark on this new path, I hope for luck and fulfillment in this venture. To anyone navigating the chaotic tide of our ever-evolving world—send your best wishes. Here’s to finding joy in the journey, wherever it may lead us!
Until next time!
