This might seem like an obvious idea, but as someone who creates –it does take a steel will to do it. Creating is no small feat, and you have to battle against yourself. I do not know about you but I am pretty sensitive, and sometimes the creative wind can be knocked out of me. It comes back but it takes bravery and discipline, which is something hard to do if you are in a funk. It is important to seek out people who are supportive, and understand the challenges of being creative. There are even creative groups that meet just to vent, laugh and gain support. Seek them out! AND surround you self with positive people that ‘get what you are doing!’

Finding inspiration can be fun, exciting and healthy. Here some things that artists and graphic designer do to feel inspired:

• Museums with suggested donations-this is possibly the best way to be inspired, what is better then thousands of masterpieces? The above picture is from the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and it is of a Bronze Byzantine Lion, I found his expression to be so whimsical and fun!
• Yoga, Dancing or something that is active, and connects the mind with the body. Working at your desk all day can take a toll on your body and mind, doing physical exercise can relieve stress, and make you believe it or not, more creative!
• Long Walks are a great way to recharge and think about your projects. I know that this might seem a bit odd, but many creative people advocate walks because of the thoughts that you have while walking. I know, a bit odd, but it does work!

Navigating modern business communication can be a minefield especially if you were raised and reared in the digital lifestyle. Young people are used to fluidly interacting on instant message, e-mail and myspace it is a new way of being, and it is a great way to be in touch, to communicate and express yourself, but how can you utilize your digital life style in a professional manner? Being digitally plugged in is a must, most businesses operate on e-mail and instant messages but there are important things you must keep in mind to protect yourself. Here are a few tips that will help make big difference.

NEVER EVER send threatening e-mails, or IMs. You might think, why would I? There are many instances were you will need to put pressure on a client (to pay) or to a manufacturer because of time. It is best to call the person, to pressure them. Why is this? Well because there is no record, and your e-mails cannot be used against you in the future. E-mails are great for everyday correspondence, but should not take the place of face to face meetings. It is surprising how much can be learned from meeting face to face where you can get a feeling of what you client needs and what they respond to best.

So you want to start out on your own, be a designer, your own boss, and you want clients. It is scary AND exciting, so what do you need to do? Well, in our law suit mad culture, it is imperative to protect yourself legally if you want to do services for others. Ok, you might ask what does this mean? Well, you need to separate your personal assets from the work you do, so if, for some reason, you are sued, they can not take your home or savings. This might sound scary but there are ways to protect yourself. My sister and I choose to become a LIMITED LIABITLY COMPANY, which is a smaller, less expensive and more flexible version of a corporation.

We are now protected, and when we get clients, receive checks, pay bills and do ANYTHING that involves the company we use the name SHEEP DOG PRINT AND DESIGN LLC, not our names. because it is a way of separating ourselves from the services we provide under our business. There are companies that provide inexpensive ways to incorporate and create LLC’s, we choose to retain a lawyer from our home town, because it was so daunting, but we filed yesterday and it feels like the sky is the limit