Year after year, resolutions lists are brimming with lofty career goals. But like many things in life, these aspirations are much easier said than done. If you’re considering taking a professional leap in 2025 – with the hopes of turning your passion into a profitable career – you’ve come to the right place.
We’ve consulted Joseph Velosa, a leading Creative Business Coach with over 26 years of experience as the Co-Founder and Director of global fashion and interiors brand, Matthew Williamson Ltd. Specialising in taking creative pursuits to commercial success, here, he offers encouraging advice for those looking to pivot or find fresh motivation.
How do you know when it’s time to make a career leap?
Velosa begins: “A good way to review whether it’s time to make a career leap is to consider yourself in a year or five year’s time. Ask yourself, will I be content if nothing changes? A tool I often use with my clients is called ‘vision chairs’ – during which they consider their current career situation and reflect on multiple potential paths.”
“Consider your future self and ask, are you glad you stayed in your current career or do you wish you’d shifted paths? If the latter, ask yourself why in particular? What do you think would be different and how might your job and life satisfaction change?” he says.
“Take the time to understand why you want to make a change and what exactly you want to be able to gain (and leave behind) by starting a new career. And remember, it is never too late to pivot. Consider Vera Wang, who debuted her first line of gowns at age 40 or Julia Child, whose first cookbook was published when she was 39.”
What is your top advice for young people who hope to make it in the (highly competitive) creative industries?
“It is often really useful to focus on your genuine passion for the field, identifying why your chosen artform or career path truly interests you. Persistence is key and it’s vital to stay motivated. Remember, rejection is just a detour, not a dead end,” Velosa says.
“Periodically consider why you started, revisiting why you love what you do, not just the surface-level ‘what’ you are doing. When you re-examine your initial enthusiasm and goals, it can provide the necessary push to continue even when things get tough.”
How can you make yourself stand out in a crowded market?
“Clearly define your niche, identify what is unique about you, and understand your target audience,” he explains. “We all have a distinct perspective and talents to offer. Knowing your points of difference – and being able to communicate them – are essential steps in standing out in a crowded market. When you couple this clarity with perseverance and the courage to put yourself forward for opportunities, you will stand out.”
Taking the leap to start your own business can be daunting. What are some key qualities of a successful entrepreneur? How do you know you have what it takes?
“Entrepreneurship can indeed be daunting. Again, it’s useful to identify why exactly you want to start a business, what your unique selling point is, and who your customers are. If you have a strong value proposition, then the questions of ‘how’ can feel a lot lighter and more manageable,” explains Velosa.
“You will never know if you have what it takes until you try! Remember, a successful brand is often the intersection between what you love to do, what you are good at, and what others want and need.”
At every stage of a career, networking is important. But it can be intimidating – What is your advice for successfully growing your industry network and contacts?
“Networking can be intimidating when viewed as a sales pitch. It often triggers anxieties about saying the wrong thing, appearing self-promoting, or not making a good impression,” he says.
“Try framing a networking opportunity as a way to create mutually beneficial connections. Lean into the idea that what you have to offer is valuable and ask questions, showing genuine interest and asking for expert guidance. Networking should be an exchange, rather than a one-way, outcome-driven conversation. It’s about forging long-lasting relationships and learning something new.”
What are your top tips for staying motivated and avoiding burnout with a demanding career?
Velosa says, “burnout is a growing concern, particularly within the creative industries. Set healthy boundaries to avoid overworking. Try to leave work within working hours, when possible, and step away from your phone, turn off your work emails or go internet-free in the evenings.”
He concludes: “Set aside regular time for activities that spark joy and promote relaxation, such as exercise, meditation, or cooking. And take your annual leave or schedule time off to rest and recharge. If you continue to struggle, find a coach or mentor who can help you identify and re-evaluate your goals in an effective, approachable way.”
