Overcoming Early Struggles and Self-Doubt
Many beginners fall in love with sketching but give up too soon because they don’t see the progress they expect. They practice hard but feel stuck, thinking talent is innate and that they simply don’t have it. The real problem, however, is often a lack of guidance on proper techniques.
I remember how frustrating it was at the start—I struggled to improve and my early sketches felt like a child’s work. But that was just the beginning of a rewarding journey.
From Corporate Path to Design Passion
At 18, I was on a typical corporate track studying business and IT. Although I graduated, I didn’t feel fulfilled. Fascinated by how design changes lives, I decided to pivot and start fresh by enrolling in a Master’s program in Product Design in Paris—the best decision I ever made.
The Turning Point: Seeing Others Succeed
Early on, motivation was low because my skills felt so imperfect and progress seemed slow. Then, meeting senior students who had started at zero but were already interning with brands like Nike and Toyota changed my perspective. If they could do it, I knew I could too.
Together with my classmates, we embraced imperfection and celebrated every tiny step forward. That belief fueled continuous growth and eventually, opportunities opened up—fashion studies in Los Angeles, internships in Japan, and designing sneakers at Adidas headquarters.
What I Wish I Had Known
Looking back, I wish I had access to the techniques and mentorship I now share with others. That’s why I’m excited to launch a course that guides passionate people through the learning curve, helping them avoid common mistakes and keep motivated.
Final Thoughts: Believe and Keep Going
Your journey won’t be perfect, but persistence and positive mindset are key. Keep sketching, embrace your mistakes, and celebrate small victories. With dedication, your dreams can become reality, just like mine did.
My First Sketch vs. My Final Sketch
- First Sketch: Entry exam for design school. No technique, just lots of practice but no progress.
- Final Sketch: Graduation exam. Master’s degree with honors and a confident hand.
My first sketch: Entrance exam for my design school. Before that I practiced a lot, but I had no technique.
If you’re struggling with confidence or progress in your design sketching journey, remember: technique is key, and persistence pays off. Keep practicing, learn from others, and celebrate every small victory.
My last sketch: Graduation exam for my design school. I obtained my Master degree with honours :).
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Me encanto esto, (en especial por el ejemplo) porque uno puede sentir que es su propia historia, que es su día a día y de verdad alienta muchísimo, hace pensar que sí hay esperanza. Adoro lo simple que haces ver el dibujar y la manera en que logras que uno elimine esas ataduras mentales el “no puedo” “no soy capaz” para comenzar un proceso donde el avance es muy rápido, donde en poco tiempo se ven resultados muy buenos.
No me cansaré de dar las gracias! c:
Hola Fer,
Thank you for your feedback. That is exactly that. Believe we can make it change the attitude and all the action taken toward our goals. 🙂