Why always work late??!

It’s been such a busy month with all sorts of events happening, on top of everything else that’s already going on. Juggling work alone has been a challenge with all the planning, the calls, and constantly having to think about the next issue of the magazine even before the current one is done.

Most days, it’s only when night falls that I finally get a bit of peace to sit down and focus on my design work. During the day, there are a hundred and one things happening. People are talking, laughing, and moving around. It’s lively, but not exactly the easiest environment to concentrate in.

I genuinely enjoy what I do. I really do. But I’ve always been someone who doesn’t like to be rushed, especially when it comes to design. I believe that if you want something good, you have to give it time.

Second best has never sat well with me. You can call me kiasu if you want, but I believe every piece of work should be done to the best of our ability. If I take something on, I want to do it properly, with care, and see it through well. If not, I’d rather not take it on at all. That’s just how I am.

Just a small side thought, but I do feel like many youngsters these days don’t quite carry this same sense of ownership. Things are taken a bit too lightly sometimes, even when they’re in positions that require responsibility. It’s like they don’t fully rise to what the role calls for.

So! What's with the 'Why always work late?' title? Well, because of the many things I need to handle and my '2nd best doesn't count!' attitude! And like I mentioned, only when night falls I'm able to do more design work. I tend to stay longer and work later. VERY OFTEN!
To the wee hours in the morning at times.

So back to the question. Why always work late?

Honestly, it’s a mix of everything I’ve mentioned. The volume of work, my “second best is not enough” mindset, and the fact that I can only really focus properly at night. So yes, I end up staying back very often. Sometimes even till the early hours of the morning.

And of course, Mum being Mum will always ask the classic question. Why do you always have to work so late? Can’t you finish earlier? Is it some kind of rule that people in advertising and design must work late?

I do get a little annoyed sometimes, but of course I don’t show it. I’ll just reply. Why not? I like it. And then quietly tell Dad not to chase me about the magazine so often.

The truth is, it’s not because we have terrible homes or anything like that. My home is lovely. It’s just that we’re genuinely passionate about what we do. Creating good ads and meaningful design takes time. It doesn’t happen overnight, no matter what clients or others might think.

Sometimes I really wish there were more hours in a day. Maybe 240 hours instead of 24. Just so I could spend more time doing what I love without feeling like I’m racing against the clock.

Cheers to all you passionate advertising and design people out there who feel the same way.