Stumped? Stymied? Stuck?

Let your “gut” be your guide.

When judgement questions arise, look inside before you look outside for answers. Rely on your instincts.

Go with your gut when:

+ the contract raises more questions than answers

+ the project for which you’re hired doesn’t feel right

+ the job opportunity with the design firm seems to good to be true

+ the hot prospect doesn’t return your phone calls

+ the new client questions your every move

+ the old client falls way behind in payments

+ the manufacturer falls way behind in deliveries.

+ the showroom starts pinching pennies

+ the volunteer position starts taking too much time

+ the talented job applicant doesn’t look you in the eye

On issues such as those, you’re better off following your intuitionand conscience.

That’s not to say that you’ll find within yourself all the answers, all the time.

On business strategy questions — such as how to price your services and raise your design fees and markups — you’re better off seeking solutions elsewhere.

By the way, here’s an excellent resource for setting and getting higher fees:

“Twice the Price: Double Your Dollars as a Design Professional”

When it comes to those “judgement” calls, there are plenty of “experts” out there eager to advise you.

Family members, for example. And friends. And other design professionals. And allied professionals, subscontractors, vendors, lawyers, accountants and mentors and life coaches and consultants.

Trouble is no one knows you like you.

No one else has walked in your shoes, and survived in your bad times, and thrived in your good times like you.

They may have good intentions, but you have good insights.

Listen to yourself, and believe what you hear. The answers that aren’t in your head may very well be in your gut.