Ageism

Hey Gary,

There are a lot of young guns out there looking for mentorship—while an 18-year-old might be able to out-code anyone, they almost certainly lack the real-world experience of Work (with a capital 'W'). Just remember that there's plenty of additional wisdom that you've already got at your disposal. Getting to that "80% success point principle" for web design doesn't take that long, and meanwhile you've got a few decades of practical know-how for just about everything else not directly pertinent to web design. You should also be able to approach middle-age to older clients better than a talented college grad. You've already got some great assets in your corner. Focus on using those while you hone your web savviness.

One last tip: consider enlisting one of those young guns and bringing him in to the company fold. When I was starting out, I recognized the need for mentorship and surrounded myself with them. I was talented enough, and in some select cases out-talented my bosses, but I also knew there was a BAJILLION things I still had to learn from them. And, of course, they could learn from me a little bit, too. Symbiosis is a key in defeating ageism.

Gary: Sounds like you've already got everything you need :) When I started learning web development, I was surprised at how much overlap there was from the print world (my background and first love). I decided right then and there that I could start offering this as a service right away, because it doesn't take much to push pixels—it's the eye that counts most, I think. Learning web development has been like learning a new software environment. It seems a little steep, but you get there faster than you thought you would.

Also, have you looked into micro-journaling? I find that has really helped me when I start a daunting task.

Very cool! I like your aesthetic a lot. Have you thought about getting on Behance or Dribbble for showing works-in-progress?