This morning I am inspired by the gray space that exists between “being compensated” and “being challenged” as a creative professional. I’ll explain. As a designer, I’m commissioned to do the type of work that I’ve already done successfully. It sounds good in theory, but the problem is that it doesn’t create a lot of opportunity for growth.

Doing pro bono work is a great way for designers to increase their range because those types of projects often come with a lot more creative freedom. However, the problem with pro bono work is that it’s “pro bono” – and “pro bono” doesn’t pay bills. I recently read an interview in which Paula Scher (one of my graphic design idols) shared her thoughts about doing free work.

“It’s not about giving away things for free—it’s about trading. It’s about putting yourself in a position where you can create something that’s going to be good for the client—which is often much better than they would get in a fee-paid situation.”

She continues to say “You might get to define a territory or create something that may be expressive of who you are. You have the opportunity to really do something without the constraints that are often there in the collaborative relationship”.

I think she’s in a unique position to make this argument. As one of the World’s top designers at a prestigious design firm, Paula Scher enjoys a financial (and creative) freedom that most designers aren’t fortunate enough to experience.

However, I do see the merit in what she is suggesting. While it isn’t financially realistic for me to take on a lot of pro bono work at this point, I know that I can invest a little time to do some pro bono work that may shape my career for the future I envision. This week I am committed to carving out some time to figure out how to do just that.

What’s your plan for the week?

Monday Motivation is a quick mood board that I make to kick-start my work week. You can check out what “motivated” me in past weeks here.