Feeling Stuck as a New Web Designer? Here’s How I’m Navigating It

Starting out as a web designer can be overwhelming. You’re learning the craft, figuring out how to attract clients, and trying to stay confident despite feeling like an imposter.

If you’re feeling stuck, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Here’s how I’m working through this stage and the steps you can take to move forward in your design career.

1. Stop Over-Consuming, Start Creating

Endless tutorials won’t make you a better designer—practice will. I used to spend hours watching design videos without applying what I learned. Now, I focus on:

• Creating personal projects – Redesigning existing websites, making landing pages, or experimenting with UI/UX concepts.
• Solving real problems – Instead of making random designs, I create websites for imaginary clients in my target niche (like real estate).

Related Post: How to Build a Portfolio Without Clients

2. Offer Your Services for Free (But Be Strategic!)

Attracting paying clients without experience is tough. Instead of waiting, I started offering free website designs for local businesses, personal brands, or nonprofits in exchange for:

 Testimonials for my portfolio
 Permission to showcase the work
 Word-of-mouth referrals

After delivering value, I ask them to recommend me to others. This simple approach helps me land paid gigs faster than waiting for clients to come to me.

3. Build Your Online Presence (It’s Non-Negotiable!)

No one will hire you if they don’t know you exist. That’s why I focus on:

• Social media marketing – I share design tips and case studies on Instagram and Twitter.
• Content creation – Writing blog posts about my journey (just like this one) to attract potential clients and fellow designers.
• Engaging in design communities – I participate in forums like Reddit’s r/web_design and Facebook groups.

By consistently putting myself out there, I build trust and position myself as an expert, even as a beginner.

4. Master the Business Side of Design

Being a great designer isn’t enough. You need to know how to sell your skills. Here’s what I’m learning:

Pricing Strategy: How to confidently charge for my work.
Client Communication: How to ask the right questions before starting a project.
Contracts & Proposals: Avoiding scope creep and getting paid on time.

One resource that helped me understand pricing is Chris Do’s guide to pricing design work.

5. Stay Consistent (Even When It Feels Like Nothing Is Working)

Some days, it feels like I’m making no progress. But I remind myself that every portfolio update, social post, and skill learned adds up. My strategy is simple:

Set small weekly goals – One new portfolio project, three social media posts, and two client outreach messages.
Track progress – Seeing how far I’ve come keeps me motivated.
Stay connected – Following other designers keeps me inspired.

Final Thoughts

Feeling stuck as a new designer is normal, but staying there is a choice. The best way to move forward is to take action daily, no matter how small.

If you’re going through the same struggles, let’s connect! Follow me on Instagram or Twitter and share your journey