• Discover your own style

Make an effort to aim for something higher than looting. Do something original and unique. We have all done something to steal and recreate things that we really like, since the very nature of design is to copy. However, look at your work.

• critically and try something completely different from your previous work. The design projects that make their mark in 2013 will be from people exploring new techniques and innovating.
• solve problems

As a freelance design expert, aim higher. Instead of creating another digital farm app, developing a website, or presenting something that no one needs, think of something new. The digital world already has too much cyber garbage. To make a difference, create a design for a cause or charity you believe in. Your commitment and enthusiasm will show in your work, possibly even landing you similar paying jobs. While doing your usual design work, aim for brilliance rather than quick fixes.

• Get rid of bad work

If you’re not happy with a design, get rid of it and start over. When you keep multiple versions of a design, you’re only adding to the confusion. Review your work critically, get rid of bad versions and start over. This way, you won’t be tempted to use the same idea for another job. Go through your design folders and get rid of the junk. You may have to resist the urge to keep all of your incomplete designs that you spent many hours making.

• Be confident and forceful

A passive designer submits substandard designs that reflect the client’s personal tastes rather than their business requirements. Instead, he brings his design expertise to the fore and tells the client his professional opinion. He speaks if you know the negative repercussions of the client’s demands. A good designer will not be a ‘yes’ person. Your client may not like it initially, but you will earn their respect when you deliver a successful project based on your own ideology.

• Learn new techniques

The fields of design, animation and art are constantly evolving. Make the effort to learn something new in 2013. A successful designer doesn’t allow stagnation, but keeps moving forward with time and technology. If you are content with your career, you will stop progressing. Learn Maya animation, PHP or something new in painting. You can also learn to use a new device, such as an iPad, Sketchbook Ink, or Sketchbook Pro, to create creative design elements.

• Learn to write

Learning how to write ads and marketing copy can double your productivity and give you a huge confidence boost. Writing your own headlines and blog content will enhance your value as a graphic designer. This is a smart career move and a very practical one because 90% of all design projects involve communication, half of which are written. Outstanding designs may be rejected because the designer failed to explain the strategy and reasoning behind them and how he met the project requirements.