What we've learned

• 'Next monday' is a deadline. 'ASAP' is a red flag.
• Not all stress is equal. Growth comes from discomfort.
• Your contracts are to protect you and your clients. Make sure they are a win-win.
• Awards mean more to agencies than they do to anyone else, don't get lost trying to impress yourself.
• Give deadlines for feedback.
• No matter how silly the question is, always be nice.
• Bad energy is like a house fire. It spreads quickly. Stomp it out.
• Vacations are important. Take them, but always notify your clients in advance.
• If you part ways from a client, thank them, be kind, and let whatever 'it' is, go. You will be better for it.
• The value of design can't always be quantified, but that doesn't mean it's unknowable — communicate how you validate your work.
• Nothing in design is too small, but you can lose sight of the big picture.
• Calibrate your monitor.
• All good design is strategic, all good design is creative.
• You cannot produce good work if you're tired. Get some sleep.
• Have boundaries and enforce them regularly.
• If a client's behaviour is incorrigible, they become a liability. Part ways.
• Always start emails with hello and end them with thank you.
• Prioritize email over phone calls. They provide written documentation keeping everyone accountable.
• Always keep a glass half-full, drinking water is important.
• Bring lunch.