Why the Local Market Matters More Than You Think

The author, a designer based in Kazakhstan, advises starting with your local market instead of directly targeting the international market. Despite the smaller market size and potentially lower pay, working locally provides invaluable experience.

• It forces you to be more adaptable and learn from constant feedback.
• You gain hands-on experience with a variety of projects and clients.
• Building relationships in a local network can lead to future opportunities.

The Benefits of a Smaller Market

While the international market may seem more attractive, the author argues that the smaller, local market can actually be a more valuable stepping stone. By working with smaller clients, you'll face more demands and expectations, leading to faster growth and development.

• More revisions and feedback help you become a better designer.
• You learn to adapt to diverse client needs and preferences.
• This intense learning environment accelerates your design experience.

Avoid Decision Fatigue and Focus on Skill Development

The author emphasizes the importance of avoiding decision fatigue in the early stages of your career. Spending too much time on trivial choices like tools or programming languages can hinder your progress.

• Instead of getting caught up in decision-making, focus on honing your skills and mastering your craft.
• Investing in your skills is far more valuable than obsessing over the perfect software or tools.

Embrace Chaos and Stay Open to Opportunities

The IT sphere is constantly evolving, and it's impossible to plan every step of your career. Be open to unexpected opportunities and don't be afraid to take risks.

• Be proactive in seeking out new challenges and collaborations.
• Don't let "busy-ness" prevent you from exploring opportunities.
• Sometimes, the best career paths emerge unexpectedly.

Why the International Market is Important Later

After gaining experience in your local market, you can then leverage your skills and expertise to expand to the international market. The author recommends focusing on building a strong foundation locally first.

• By starting small, you gain the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in a larger market.
• The experience you gain locally makes you a more valuable asset when entering the international market.
• You'll be better equipped to handle complex projects and diverse client needs.

Key Takeaways for Your IT Career

The author emphasizes the importance of staying adaptable and open to new opportunities in the rapidly evolving IT sphere. He offers three key takeaways for anyone starting out in this field:

• **Start local:** Gain experience and build your skills in a smaller market before aiming for the international market.
• **Focus on your skills:** Don't get bogged down in decision-making. Invest in mastering your craft instead of obsessing over tools or technologies.
• **Embrace chaos:** Be open to new opportunities and don't be afraid to deviate from your initial plan.

The Value of Design Philosophy for Startup Growth

The author concludes with a call to action, inviting readers to learn more about the importance of design philosophy for startup growth. He highlights the potential for entrepreneurs to join a community of like-minded individuals and access valuable resources.

• By understanding and implementing sound design philosophy, startups can achieve sustainable growth and success.
• The author emphasizes the importance of joining a community and learning from other entrepreneurs.