If there’s one thing I’ve learned in this line of work, it’s that creativity isn’t just about inspiration—it’s about adaptability. This past stretch has been a whirlwind, filled with last-minute projects, slow-moving clients, and some nostalgic moments that reminded me why I love doing what I do.

Recently, a client came to me with a large animation project, very last-minute. The deadline was tight, but that’s the nature of the game. I put in the work, delivered, and—well, let’s just say the revisions were plenty. But that’s the job, right? At the end of the day, we’re here to provide a service, and if that means refining things until they hit the mark, then so be it. The real win? They came back a few days later for additional work. That’s always a good sign—proof that the fire at The Forge burns bright.

Then there’s the other side of things—the clients who take their sweet time. I recently convinced (coerced, really) a client to hand over their multi-logo design job. They agreed, but let’s just say their response time could use a little work. It’s one of the more frustrating parts of design work—clients not realizing that good design needs time. Rushed deadlines and last-minute tweaks aren’t the best recipe for a refined final product. But hey, patience is part of the hustle, and I’ll keep hammering away until it’s right.

On the flip side, an old friend reached out for two logo designs, which should be a fun project. There’s something different about working with people you’ve known for a while—it feels more like a collaboration than just another transaction.

Speaking of nostalgia, I also caught up with my old manager recently. We shared stories from the past, reminiscing about the sense of family we built at that company. It’s a rare thing to find in the workplace, but when you do, it sticks with you.

So, that’s been the grind—balancing quick turnarounds, slow responses, and meaningful moments in between. The work never stops, but that’s exactly why I signed up for it. The creative hustle isn’t always smooth, but it’s always worth it.

From Lusaka, Zambia, The Forge keeps shaping, refining, and crafting—because great work isn’t just made, it’s forged.