I thought it would be easy....


Hi Reader 👋

Can I share a secret?

Before I transitioned into web design I spent 6 years designing digital platforms in the FinTech industry. And honestly, in comparison to those complex apps, I thought websites would be easy. A website is just a few pages with some images, right?

Wrong.

Despite my experience, I had grossly underestimated the following aspects of working as a web design freelancer:

  • The power of good writing
  • The differences in user & buyer psychology
  • How much my own business systems mattered

So for the past 2 years, I've focused on leveling up in these 3 areas to fulfill my goals as a web design freelancer.

Why am I telling you this? Two reasons:

#1: Learning from others is the quickest way forward.

I've made lots of mistakes - some taught me valuable lessons but others I wish I could've avoided. With this newsletter, I want to help you skip the mistakes that will slow you down, so you can reach your goals a bit quicker (or at least with a little less discomfort).

#2 The Dunning-Kruger effect is real.

The Dunning-Kruger effect is when someone's lack of knowledge causes them to overestimate their own competence (Read more about it here).

My lack of knowledge of web design (and my ego) made me think the transition would be easy. And honestly, it felt weird to start from scratch after 6 years. But actually, it was the best thing ever.

Embracing and accepting my lack of knowledge introduced me to a whole new way of thinking and a bunch of topics I'm genuinely passionate about.

So, keep your mind open and stay humble - you never know what you might learn.

Have you made any mistakes that you've learned from?

Reply to this email and I'd love to hear about it 😊

What I'm reading:

A positive, motivational read that ends each chapter with the advice "Love yourself" - which we can maybe all do a bit more of 😊

Recommended by Rebecca from Velvet Octopus. Shes an awesome writer, check her out: instagram.com/velvetopus

What are your December plans?

During December I'll be enjoying some quiet time in Berlin with Biscuit & Bijou (my two cats) to escape the cold. Do you have any warm, homemade drink recommendations? Hit reply and share! And feel free to send any questions or comments – I'm always up for a chat. Until next time, have a wonderful week!

Kat 🪴


P.S. Want to share with a friend? Here's the link to subscribe.

P.P.S. Thank you for reading - it means a lot to me. But your time is valuable and I respect that. If these emails ever turn into a burden, please unsubscribe.

Kat Irwin Design

Web Design Solutions for Entrepreneurs

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