Yo, if you’re just starting out in graphic design, I totally get the struggle. I remember being in the same spot, feeling lost with all the software, tools, and the insane amount of info out there. You feel like everyone around you is so much better and wonder if you'll ever get to that level. Spoiler: You absolutely can.
(AI)
One thing I wish someone told me when I started? It’s totally okay to be a beginner. Everyone you look up to was once exactly where you are—confused, making weird color combos, and trying to remember where all the tools are in Photoshop. It’s a process, and the learning curve is real, but stick with it.
Honestly, start with the basics.
Don’t worry about all the crazy effects or super-advanced techniques. Nail down the essentials first—learn color theory, typography, and composition. Trust me, these are the foundations that make everything else way easier. Don’t stress if your designs aren’t “perfect” right now; that comes with time and practice.
Also, don’t be afraid to copy
(for learning purposes)! Redesigning your favorite pieces or trying to recreate a cool ad you saw helps you understand how professionals work. Just keep it in your files, though, and make sure not to post someone else’s style as your own.
Save your old work.
Sounds weird, but it’s crazy motivating to look back a few months down the line and see how much you’ve improved. Design is one of those skills where you don’t notice progress day-to-day, but over time, you’ll surprise yourself.
Lastly, reach out! Find other designers, join communities, ask questions, and get feedback. The design world’s way more supportive than it might look, and everyone’s been the “newbie” at some point.
Even more lastly, the world does not stop for anyone. Times are changing and new tools are emerging. New equipment is better and cheaper than at any time in history. Let's grasp this and accept it. And let's take advantage.
Creating AI art is something I consider to be, well art. And I don't mean writing a simple prompt and getting some result there. Creating with AI artwork that was in your head before you started writing the prompt, well - that's art.
So answer to the title of this post is:
...mean that you know the perfect things to say to someone who is struggling now.
Keep creating, keep experimenting, and don’t worry if it takes time. We all start somewhere.