Meet Alexandra Smith

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Alexandra Smith a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alexandra, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.

Everyone starts somewhere, and imposter syndrome is something many of us face. I’ve learned to push past it by focusing on doing what I love and being confident in who I am. For me, putting in the time and hard work has been key to building confidence in myself and my work. Each project, each challenge, is an opportunity to learn and grow. Surrounding myself with supportive people, and embracing my unique perspective, has also been crucial. By staying true to myself and my passion for design, I’ve been able to overcome doubts and let my creativity shine through. So, screw imposter syndrome—just do what you love, love what you do, and believe in yourself!

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

Hey everyone! I’m Alex. I’m excited to give you a peek into my world as a graphic designer!

What I love most about what I do is taking a simple idea and turning it into something that speaks volumes. It’s not just about making things look pretty (though that’s part of the fun!), it’s about creating a vibe, a feeling, something that resonates on a deeper level.

When it comes to inspiration I find inspiration in my hobbies like yoga, reading, and hiking, and some of my best ideas come from the mundane places I see on the regular—like wandering the aisles of the grocery store or driving down the highway and spotting a cool sign. I am always on the lookout for things and people that inspire me.

As for what’s next? I’m always up pushing myself and am open to the good things that come my way. What truly drives me is using design for the greater good. My main objective as of now is to make a positive impact and contribute to healing the world through design.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

First, remaining curious and open-minded has been crucial. It’s what led me to explore new techniques, styles, and ideas, ultimately fueling my growth as a designer. My advice to those starting out is to embrace curiosity and never stop seeking inspiration from diverse sources. Stay open to new experiences and perspectives—it’s where true creativity thrives.

Second, the ability to adapt to change has been really important on my journey. Design is a constantly evolving field, and being able to learn new things when needed and learn from failures is essential. My advice? Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Stay resilient, keep pushing forward, and don’t let setbacks deter you from pursuing your passion. Sometimes the hardest things we go through in life can inspire us to be better people, find new perspective and push us to pursue the path we are meant to be on.

Lastly, communication. Being able to effectively communicate ideas, listen to feedback, and collaborate with clients and other creatives has been key to bringing projects to life. Lead with an open heart and you will find your way! To those starting out, I’d say: prioritize your communication skills, both verbal and visual. Learn to articulate your ideas clearly and be open to feedback. Cultivate a collaborative mindset—it’s what will elevate your work and inspire new ideas.

In summary, keep your heart and mind open, stay curious, communicate and allow your passion fuel you!

Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?

When I feel overwhelmed, my first step is to take a deep breath and step away from the project, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Whether it’s going for a walk or simply taking a moment to clear my mind, I find that creating some space allows me to regain perspective and recharge. Prioritizing self-care during these moments is crucial.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.alexandracarolinedesign.com/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandracarolinedesign/