Portrait of a Freelancer: Mikael Bédard
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<p><em>Freelance Profile - Meet inspiring people who have chosen to earn a living by being self-employed. Discover their story, unique lifestyle, and challenges through a humanistic perspective. Today, we meet Mikael Bédard, a graphic designer who recently decided to have his own business.</em></p>
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<h3><strong>1-Tell us About Yourself</strong></h3>
<p>I am a graphic and web designer, and I own my business: Mikael Bédard - Graphic Designer. </p>
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<h3><strong>2-Where Does Your Interest in Your Work and Graphic Design Come From?</strong></h3>
<p>I always have been a creative person, as far as I can remember. I have always been passionate about graphic arts and communication. I remember creating a business card for my father on our family Windows XP when I was young. What I find the most interesting about my work is the ability to use my creativity in various projects and offer a service that allows me to propel the brand of the businesses I work with. </p>
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<h3><strong>3-How Did You Become Self-Employed?</strong></h3>
<p>I always wanted to be my own boss, and I am allergic to a 9 to 5 routine. When I finished my design studies, I managed to have a web integrator and interface design profile. I have worked for nearly two years in a development software business. It is during the pandemic that I felt a lack of fulfillment. It was a difficult period for me. I thought that I was more of a programmer daily. I wanted to do graphic design, but I doubted my talent. I was also scared to leave my job.</p>
<p>And then, the turning point was when I discovered that I had access to an assistance program that helps people start their businesses with my university. After a few meetings, I knew that I was made for entrepreneurship. I then worked on my project slowly for a few months while saving money and developing my skills. In Spring 2021, I then left my job and started my business. I have had no regrets since then!</p>
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<h3><strong>4-What Is the Most Challenging Part of Self-Employment?</strong></h3>
<p>I would say that it is to establish a routine and create our own definition of a workday on a personal level. We are so used to the 9 to 5 schedule that sometimes we forget that we are free from it. It is difficult to get rid of this and not feel guilty.</p>
<p>In addition, solitude and working from home, especially during winter when we do not go out so often, can be a burden. We need to take care of our mental health. There are days when everything is fine and others when it is more challenging to be motivated.</p>
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<h3><strong>5-Which Part of Being Self-Employed Do You Like the Most?</strong></h3>
<p>The freedom of choosing when and where we work.</p>
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<h3><strong>6-Tell Us About Your Work Routine.</strong></h3>
<p>I always try to wake up at the same time. I take the time to wake up and take care of myself. Then, I start working on my computer and check the tasks I need to do or the ones that are already in progress. I send a few emails, and I organize my day. Once done, I take breakfast and drink a coffee.</p>
<p>It may seem dumb, but this simple morning routine helps me a lot. As soon as I finish my breakfast, I start working, and I am way more productive. It is likely because it allows me to separate the management from the creative tasks.</p>
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<h3><strong>7-What Are the Online Tools You Could Not Live Without?</strong></h3>
<p>Of course, Momenteo for my invoicing and managing my income and expenses! Regarding managing my tasks and note-taking, I use Notion (if you do not know, try it, it is awesome!) I also use Clockify as my time tracking tool. </p>
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<h3><strong>8-How Did You Learn About Momenteo, and How Long Have You Been Using It?</strong></h3>
<p>I have used it since my first day as a self-employed worker. I discovered it by searching on Google. I tried other tools before, but the features available on Momenteo and its price were attractive. And, we do support a business from Quebec!</p>
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<h3><strong>9- What Makes Momenteo Different from Other Accounting Tools?</strong></h3>
<p>The fact that it is developed here and made especially for self-employed workers.</p>
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<h3><strong>10-How Did You Find Your First Customers? </strong></h3>
<p>As is often said, word-of-mouth is, to this day, the best method. We must NEVER underestimate the power of our network. Whether it is friends, family, or someone you know, be annoying! Tell them about what you do. You will be surprised to see how many times you can get recommended! Here is a tip: know people in the same field as you. They can give you work they do not have time to do, subcontract, or guide you when you have problems or questions. Otherwise, I would say that social media and Facebook groups are also good places to look for clients.</p>
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<h3><strong>11-What Are Your Tips for Someone Who Would Like to Get Into Freelance?</strong></h3>
<p>Go! If you are worried about money, make sure to save enough money to decrease your financial stress. Accept to make mistakes, try things, and find what you are passionate about. Here is a quote I like a lot: There is no plan B, only plan A. <br />
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<h3><strong>12-What Project Are You Most Proud of?</strong></h3>
<p>I recently did the complete branding of a nonprofit organization. My first! It is beautiful, and I cannot wait to show it!</p>
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<h3><strong> 13-Do You Have any Big Plans for This Summer?</strong></h3>
<p>Yes! New business opportunities are coming, and I will likely work on awesome projects! I am also working on a personal project in the fashion industry. Also, I might try to become a digital nomad. I could rent an Airbnb in Toronto or in the Canadian West; who knows! </p>
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<h3><strong>14-How Can We Contact You?</strong></h3>
<p>It is possible to contact me on my website: <a href="http://mikaelbedard.com/" target="_blank">mikaelbedard.com</a> or by email: mibed.design@gmail.com. I am also active on Instagram:@mikael.design. </p>