Thinking about becoming a designer in 2025? The short answer: yes, it’s still a great career path.
Design offers creative challenges, solid income potential, and the freedom to work from anywhere in the world. But let’s be real — success in design doesn’t come from “just being creative.” It takes clarity, discipline, and a good understanding of how the industry actually works.
Here are 8 honest truths aspiring designers should know before jumping in.
1. Design is a business tool — not just self-expression
If you want to express yourself, do art. If you want to make money, focus on solving real problems for real people.
Design isn’t about making things look pretty. It’s about creating solutions that work. Clients and companies pay you for the value you bring — not your personal taste.
2. Competition isn’t your biggest obstacle — inconsistency is
Many people start learning design expecting quick results, inspired by glamorous posts on social media. They quit the moment it gets hard.
There’s no secret skill or tool that guarantees success. Show up consistently, improve a little each week, and you’ll already be ahead of most.
3. The hardest part is getting started
Your first goal is simple: understand the product design process and learn to use the basic tools. Build 1–3 solid portfolio projects that reflect how you think, not just how things look.
Once you land your first job, things get easier. Good designers are always in demand — even during layoffs.
4. Your portfolio matters more than anything else
Hiring managers won’t care where you studied or how many courses you’ve completed. They want to see how you solve problems.
Even student projects count — as long as you show your thought process, decision-making, and outcomes clearly.
5. Don’t over-design your portfolio projects
You’re not designing to impress other designers on Behance. You’re designing to show how you think.
A good case study includes:
- the problem you solved,
- your research and reasoning,
- clear steps in your process,
- clean visuals of the final result.
Forget the flashy motion mockups — clarity wins.
6. You don’t need to master every tool
You don’t need to know 15 apps. For most jobs, Figma is enough.
Master:
- Components,
- Auto layout,
- Variables,
- Styles.
That’s all you need to confidently work on real-world projects.
7. Quality beats quantity in your portfolio
Don’t obsess over having 5+ projects. One strong, well-structured case is better than five shallow ones.
As you grow, keep updating your portfolio. Replace your early work as your skills improve.
8. Start applying early — not when you “feel ready”
Don’t wait until you feel 100% confident. Apply as you learn. Build your skills, improve your portfolio — and send out applications every day.
Set a goal: 20 applications per day. Track your progress in a spreadsheet. It works.
Final Thoughts
Design is still a valuable, in-demand profession. As more companies build digital products and services, the need for thoughtful design keeps growing.
With a few years of experience, you can earn well, freelance with flexibility, and even work part-time while traveling the world.
You don’t need to be a superstar to succeed. You just need to be consistent, curious, and focused on solving real problems.
Good luck — and if you’re stuck, reach out. I’m happy to share what I’ve learned.
Should You Become a Designer in 2025? Here’s What You Really Need to Know was originally published in UX Planet on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.