Vlad Chichisan

How do you describe what you do for work, and how long have you been doing that?

I came to accept de fact that I’m a jack of many trades, master of none. And I’m starting to lean into that and embrace it with both arms. I’m a UI/UX designer for about 7 years now, but I dabble in After Effects, Blender, Webflow and who knows what next… hopefully woodworking.

What is your work style, and what led you to working in this way?

As much as I wish I would be the kind of freelancer who can work from wherever and whenever, it seems I’m anything but that. So, my solution was to get an office downtown with a couple of other freelancers. I needed a space dedicated to working. One that lacks a cozy bed and a playstation 3 inches from my eyeballs. (Disregarding the pandemic and how it messed up my routines.)

What’s the most challenging thing about your work?

Time management. I’m fairly certain I would accomplish a lot more in less time, if I’d have a proper system in place. Every attempt goes out the window the moment things get crowded… which, ironically, is when I need a system the most.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of your work?

Time management. That’s right, it’s a double edged sword. I may struggle with managing my time but I can’t imagine going back to asking for a day off or having to hear about staying too long in my lunch break or having limited vacation days.

What healthy habits do you have in place to look after your mental health at work?

I have a checklist of 10 things I try to do every day. The goal is to tick as many as possible, not all of them. The list includes, waking up and going to bed times, meditation, drinking water, exercise, no sugar and so on. I also keep a journal.

If you could have known one thing before you went self-employed, what would it have been?

“Oy, that website you rely on for gigs… It’s in beta, mate! Could close any day…” - it didn’t. But I did outgrow it, though.

Tell us something surprising about you.

“You get childlike excited about the stupidest things.” - My girlfriend

And finally - can you share a piece of work you’re super proud of?

Not yet, unfortunately.