Navigating Life After Uni: Embracing Uncertainty & Growth
If you had asked me five years ago where I’d be today, I probably wouldn’t have guessed designing brands that shape communities. But here we are.
Hey, I’m Chloe Wickham—a designer passionate about branding, business, and impact. My journey started in 2020 when I helped with my dad’s dojo branding, and since then, I’ve fallen in love with creating brands that genuinely connect with people.
But design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about shaping experiences, sparking change, and building meaningful connections. Whether it’s a community-driven initiative or a sustainability-focused brand, I thrive on exploring how design can make a real impact.
The Post-Uni Reality Check
Recently, I closed the chapter on university life and stepped into the real world—a shift that brought a whirlwind of emotions. Excitement? Absolutely. Drive? Definitely. But also moments of doubt, confusion, and fear of the unknown.
The biggest challenge? Navigating what comes next. I found myself questioning every step, wondering about the “right” path, and sometimes feeling like I wasn’t moving forward fast enough. But through it all, I realised one thing—I never stopped creating, learning, and working toward my goals.
Overcoming the Fear of the Unknown
Adjusting to life after university isn’t always easy, but I found some strategies that helped me embrace uncertainty instead of fearing it:
Setting Clear Goals
Research shows that setting specific, measurable goals increases motivation and achievement (Locke & Latham, 2002). By breaking down large goals into smaller, actionable tasks, I’ve been able to track my progress and stay motivated.
Continuing to Learn
Studies have shown that continuous learning and skill development keep us motivated and adaptable in the face of change (Day, 2001). By taking online courses and attending workshops, I’ve been able to sharpen my design skills and stay up-to-date with industry trends.
Allowing Free Space Daily
Research in creativity shows that taking breaks and allowing mental downtime is essential for innovative thinking (Kaufman, 2014). I’ve found that dedicating time to unstructured thinking boosts my creativity and helps me problem-solve better.
Letting Go of Guilt Over Rejections
According to Carol Dweck’s research on mindset, viewing challenges, failures, and rejections as opportunities to grow leads to greater resilience and success (Dweck, 2006). I’ve learned to view rejection as a learning experience, not a setback.
Finding Joy in the Process
Beyond design, I’ve kept up my 1,000-day Duolingo streak (though speaking fluently is still a work in progress!) and continue exploring the best vegan cafes. Staying curious and making time for the things I love has helped me stay grounded through all the uncertainty.
Final Thoughts
Stepping into the unknown is never easy, but embracing the process has led to unexpected growth. If you’re in a similar place—whether it’s post-uni uncertainty or a career pivot—know that every small step forward counts.
Keep learning, keep creating, and trust that the journey will unfold in ways you never imagined.
References
Day, R. A. (2001). Learning is a continuous process. Human Resource Development Quarterly, 12(1), 7-22. https://doi.org/10.1002/hrdq.1015
Dweck, C. S. (2006). Mindset: The new psychology of success. Random House.
Kaufman, J. C. (2014). The creativity conundrum: A perspective from cognitive science. Routledge.
Locke, E. A., & Latham, G. P. (2002). Goal setting and task performance: 1969-1980. Psychological Bulletin, 90(1), 125-152. https://doi.org/10.1037/0033-2909.90.1.125
