As the world economy continue to crumble, we as designers, whether freelancing, professional, CEO types, or other types, need to heed to the warnings of a falling dollar and a faltering market. I recently discovered that most designers weren’t cutting people a break when they need it the most. I’m cutting people a break. Not because I’m hurting financially or because I’m in it to make a quick buck, I’m just designing with a heart.

I have taken to the streets with a new “designolosophy”. I have found it to be irresponsible to charge people $375 an hour for design regardless of my qualifications. I’m not stooping downto any low level or abhorring the sanctity of professional design, I’m just giving people who deserve a break, well… a break.

I think some designers, including myself, have lost touch with reality because of how long we’ve been designing. In recent months, I have seen designers drop their prices by hundreds just to remain competitive in a downhill market. My previous rates of $375 an hour were absurd and totally irresponsible for a business regardless of the reputation of it and it’s designers. I know time is worth everything, but I began to lose sight of what was really important when I started focusing on the money instead of the creativity.

Now, humbly, I accept $25 an hour, help entrepreneurs and individuals out, while at the same time doing what I love. I’m not scared now. I design from my heart.