Common Fears of Starting an Interior Design Career and How to Conquer Them

Interior Designer Podcast, Interior Design Career, Interior Design School, Interior Design Business, Interior Design Mentor, Interior Designer

Are you worried about starting or transitioning into a creative career like interior design? You’re not alone! It’s normal to feel scared about the unknown.

In this episode, I address the most common fears that hold people back from switching careers and pursuing their design dreams.

From fears about your business failing, lacking experience, or managing the financial and legal side of running your practice – I have practical solutions. I share my story of starting a successful design business during a recession and provide actionable advice and resources to help you overcome these hurdles. You’ll learn how to build the right framework, develop a confident mindset, and surround yourself with the support you need to thrive as a designer.

If you’re ready to take the next step but feeling stuck in fear, this episode is a must-listen. Gain the clarity and courage to make your career change a reality. Tune in now and discover how you can turn your creative passion into a fulfilling, profitable design career.

Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode
  • Overcome your fears with practical advice from someone who has been there before
  • Discover valuable resources on starting your own interior design business and setting yourself up for success
  • Get the mindset shift and confidence boost you need to transition into a creative career you love
      Check out these episode highlights

      Common Fears in Career Transition to Interior Design

      02:19 – Fear of Business Failure

      Concern: The business will not succeed due to unforeseen challenges.

      Advice:

      • While it is risky, having a framework and seeking advice or mentorship can increase the chances of success.
      • Have a mindset that acknowledges imperfections and seeks help.
      • Be inspired by my experience of starting a business during a recession and how it became successful.

      04:29 – Fear of Lack of Professional Experience

      Concern:

      • Not having professional experience and difficulty getting opportunities to work under another designer.
      • Unsure about the proper steps to take to start that business.

      Advice:

      • Use the Business Starter Kit which includes a checklist to guide interior designers through starting their own business.
      • Enroll in My Design Mentor and do sample projects within the program.
      • Use your skills from other careers to make yourself more attractive to potential employers.
      • Work on your resume and develop skills to make you hireable by a prospective employer.

      06:21 – Fear of the Accounting, Administration, and Legal Aspects of the Business

      Concern: Struggling with accounting, legal, and administrative tasks.

      Advice:

      • Outsource these tasks to experts, such as hiring a bookkeeper or an accounting firm.
      • Find software to ease the burden or hire someone to help with administrative tasks.
      • Hire professionals from the start to avoid mistakes and ensure compliance.
      • Surround yourself with professionals to ensure a smooth start.

      08:36 – Fear of Work-Life Balance

      Concern: Difficulty balancing personal life and a new business.

      Advice:

      • Set boundaries with clients and manage time effectively.
      • Listen to previous podcast episodes discussing time management.

      09:55 – Fear of Inexperience and Low Pay

      Concern: Entering an entry-level position with low pay after switching careers.

      Advice:

      • Second-career designers might need to work part-time for another designer while building a client base.
      • Have a business model like charging for furniture that allows for higher profit margins.
        Links Mentioned
        Next Steps

          Grab your freebies:

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          Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.

          Email me at [email protected] if you have suggested topics

          DM me on Instagram at @rwarddesign if you have a burning question

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            Thanks for listening. I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week…