How I Became A Graphic Designer- Chris Do origin story & struggles Pt. 1 

You decided to be a Chris Do, instead of staying a Chris Don't

I'm 19 and I watch all of Chris's videos aspiring to have a mindset like him. but it's very comforting to know he was once young and unsure just like me. Gives me lot of hope.

It's so wierd to see Chris going deep in his personal life. I like it.

"That night I killed the old version of me" Deep!

I was 26 when I came back from an overseas trip to be told I was fired from my (dead-end) job. A few months later after a lot of soul searching I had a moment of epiphany. I was going to become a designer. I absolutely knew that's what I was going to do. I was as certain about that as the sun coming up the next day. Was accepted into two colleges. Graduated. A few decades later I'm still at it, still loving it and I'm still learning.

'i didn't like feeling pathetic, i didn't like the negative energy, my mother had given up on me.' that is very relatable right now. Watching this made me cry more than anything else and it was the little nudge of motivation i think i was subconsciously looking for. Thank you so much.

inspirational! That epiphany when you realize the main thing holding you back in life is not other people or circumstances or lack of resources, but yourself.

I keep coming back to this video to remind myself of what I should be focusing on, it's extremely relatable, but it's easy to loose focus on tough days. THANK YOU SO MUCH AGAIN

17 is pretty young to know what you want to do. I was probably 20 when I decided that yeah, I could do design.. I was doing it in my spare time anyway.. and if I was really honest.. I was probably 25 when I finally decided that yeah, I want to do run my own business doing it. As you get older, your interests change as well, so I think a lot of people deal with that. I was also competing with siblings who are considered "successful" and "smart" (one is an engineer and the other is a bio chemist) so.. for me.. being a designer felt like a total let down to my parents.. so I went to school for something I liked, but ultimately didn't have a passion for just so that my parents felt like I was doing something worthwhile. I guess it'd be great if high schools really pushed interning and apprenticing. If I had the opportunity at that age, perhaps I would have gotten into the field a lot sooner. Who knows.

I'm at a similar point, 24, unemployed, design agencies never email me back, it's tough, but there has to be a light at the end of the tunnel

17 is late?! I am now 36 and just crossed that threshold!

Wow thanks for opening up like this! I hit this point about 3 years ago and have been working my way to a better version of myself. Both mind, body, and career. It's pretty uplifting to hear about your light at the end of the tunnel. Keep making more videos like these!

Awesome! I got in real late 28😬. I avoided going down my path way to long but I'm on the right track and excited about the next step for me. Great video thanks for sharing. It does hurt to not have support but proving people wrong along the way helps😉

Thank you for making this video. I was getting into a deep depression that I didn't know how to get myself out of, and when I was listening to your story about your struggle, it connected to me. Hearing your story helped me get out of the mind fog that I have been in for months. Now I've become motivated to get into Graphic Design again, and am making a portfolio to get myself started up again. Thank you (*^w^*)

I can't stop watching your videos. You're really aspiring me to start up my graphics company. I have always loved doing graphics/illustration since I left college a few years ago, but I never took it further because I didn't know the business side of being a successful graphic designer. I genuinely had no idea where to start. But since I have been watching your videos, I feel I am finally understanding on how I could possibly start my own company which I have always wanted. You have made me motivated again and I cannot thank you enough for that.

Powerful stuff, thank you . What helps me persevere is telling myself that I can always say "no more" and walk away. Glad everything seems to have worked out for you.

It's really comforting to know this, especially when you connect so much. You guys have a beautiful thing going on. Thank you for all the stuff you've shared - not just in this video but the rest too.

You have no idea how much i can relate to what you said about your struggles. It was like seeing myself going through what i'm doing right now and making those big decisions in my life that I know will prove everyone wrong about what they think about me. It's so close to what i'm going through that it's a bit scary but at the same time it's so relieving to see this is a process that other successful people went through. I am simply amazed!

Never give up on yourself! Dope to hear your story. Can't wait for pt 2.

Thank you for sharing your personal life Chris! I extremely appreciate it! I did completely relate to you :( I'm so sorry If those dark things ever happened to you, yet it brings you to who are you know. It is extremely inspiring and encouraging! I just wanted to say I love you so much, please keep being you and thank you SO MUCH for existing!

thank you so much for sharing this video, sir! your work has been a BIG source of inspiration for me. I've been (and probably still am) in a place similar to where you used to be....I'm 17. But my depression sort of led me to discover my interest in art and once I got introduced to design one and a half years ago, I've sorta improved but...graphic design scares me! (oh and I'm from India soooo design is considered an 'alternative' career choice and I'm already labelled as an outsider :) ) So, coming to the main point, your videos on RU-vid helped sort out a LOT of anxiety I previously faced with graphic design (specially with Typography) They're so concise, well narrated , informative and humorous! I've got my college entrance exams in Jan 2019 you're a huge source of inspiration to beginners like me ! I'm so glad I got to watch this video and known your story. I WILL be a better version of myself! xD

for the love of god plz don't stop, all the talks, interviews , and tips you give help tough and older artist figure out what in the hell we wanna do and help us not go through some of the struggles that you had. PLEASE keep helping us . - 17 Year old in Chicago

102 likes, 0 dislikes, notifs on. Your videos have boosted my confidence in charging higher, thinking deep and also outside the box, and talking better.

You have a really special talent. You start flames in people, Chris, you spark the change within. I am infinitely grateful that you didn't give up and decided to fight because you really make a difference in not only my life but the lives of many. Something about you just resonates with me on a deep level. I'm buzzing inside. :) Can't wait for next episode.

Thank you, Chris, for sharing so openly and honestly :) Your tale of transformation is really inspiring. I went through something similar once, so it really resonates with me. It's also a great reminder that sometimes there is a need to push through to get oneself to a better place. Even without totally hitting rock bottom one sometimes needs to find that fire inside that makes it possible to move on at a faster pace. So thank you for adding som kindling to the fire :)

Thanks for sharing this with us Chris. Im 17, I graduated high school early. As a freshman in College, I find myself in a very similar situation -- from my support group no longer supporting me to questioning the major I decided to study. This episode really puts things into perspective for me; I really appreciate knowing that someone I look up to today went through similar challenges when they first started their journey. Sorry for being corny but, this gives me hope to keep pursuing my dreams thanks Chris!

Love this story and seeing this side of you Chris Do. It hits home for me. Thanks for sharing.

So moving! Chris Do, you are quickly becoming my hero as you're giving me hope for my futur. Thank you for sharing.

It's deep. Thanks for sharing. I know it's not easy. Many go through something similar but very few come out of it the way you did and have the courage to end that state of being and transform into a new one. Thank you for sharing your story!

Thank you Chris for sharing. This is so inspiring.

It's great to see this very personal take on your development as a creative, some things I can definitely relate to. It also makes you more human to be ope about your vulnerable moments. Watching it for the second time to really absorb this well.

Amazing life story, Chris. Thanks for sharing that.

The cinematography and editing is just getting better and better. Love it.

I feel you on that hurt of those giving up on you. It is a decision of drive like I have never experienced before. But...it is a decision...and it will propel you if you're willing to do the work. Great episode. Looking forward to Part 2.

I discovered you Chris only recently in IG. I am amazed how you started being a graphic designer but now understand everything there is to know about the business side of it. And BtW, I can listen to you all day and continue to be blown away. Thank you for inspiring all of us 😍

Jesus this is so relatable. Thank u for sharing!

TOO GLAD I CAME ACROSS THIS VIDEO! I am in one of his steps into getting into Art Center and Im trying..i really want this! I even told others that was my path after leaving a UC school, Social contract is signed!

Wow, thanks for sharing. Seems like we all have a version of falling down and somehow getting back up and persevering. It's all about the process. The journey. The challenge!

So cool and inspiring to hear your story, love the channel! Thank you for all that you do, are, create, and share!!! 🎨🕉️🙏

I wanted to see this version of Chris do, the story of his life really touched me. thank you sir for sharing something this personal with us.

whoa! this show just lives and breathes class. Really cool visuals and editing! Kudos! :)

Kind of going through it now at the age of 23. Finally gave myself a kick 2-3 months ago to start being productive, working on my skills and made a portfolio. I chose my path, now I just have to walk this path until I reach my goal :) Thank you for sharing Chris

I really love your story. Thank you for sharing it. I’ve always been doing art- digital and traditional and just recently I realized I no longer want to teach and decided to follow my passion to do art, and graphic design/illustration- and to actually make money through my art! Thank you!

Mind-blowing! Thank you for sharing :)

This was super inspirational Chris! Inspired to keep pursuing my design career!

Thanks for sharing your story, as always it's so inspiring to hear you talk about your background as well as the business side of things.

@Chris Do, I see you as my Guru. You are so talented and humble at the same time! And still found it hard to believe when you replied to my beginner graphic works I sent you on Messenger! I am a HUGE fan and I hope I see myself growing my amateur design skills while I continue taking all your awesome advice as religiously I do :)

Hi Chris, I can confidently say ever since I've discovered your channel, my life as a creative designer has improved tenfold. So THANK YOU, you're officially my #1 design mentor :) Dunno why but you also remind me of my cousin, jussayin

This is really an amazing story! Love your channel, found it today and subscribed after watching 2 videos!

I love your videos, thanks for all of the information!

Wow! Amazing life experiences, thanks so much for sharing it!! Really related to some of your trails you've gone through.

This is by far the most relatable video ever. I can't thank you enough. I hope I get to meet you one day as a new person.

the last bit about everyone giving up on you is what im going through and it feels amazing to see such a successful version of the same story im 19 in university going through the state of everyone giving up on me and i have made my design to prove everyone wrong

This video really applies to me right now. I just transferred to a major university to pursue graphic design after having done it on the side for a long time. I’m tired of pushing down my creative side. It’s time to do me and kick ass

That was raw. It may have been hard to tell that story but thank you for sharing.

Thanks for sharing this. Always dropping knowledge.

Really inspiring and motivating for me as I'm on my way off that dark path myself. Thank you :')

Wow. Powerful stuff, Chris. You're a talented storyteller.

All he said is happening to me right now, or atleast similar. Im experiencing what he had experience...and watching this is really helpful. Glad I searched up videos about Graphic Design and landed into this vid.

This is vibe is so strong watching your videos, somehow really can relate much. More power!

one of my favourite futur videos

I thought it was going to be much easier after college and board exams. Now @ 56 with sciatica, thyroid issues, insomnia and polycystic issues, and 5 yrs from forced leave at the start of the pandemic, I'm lost. Ok. I'll take the first step that I felt I needed to get rolling again. Study 10% then Do 90%. 🤞 Learn to focus, learn to enjoy the ride 🙏. When you said you used to cry like a baby, I realized I also am, but too proud, too fearful to recognize it. Thanks for sharing, Chris Do. 💛

Thanks for sharing your story, I'm glad you never gave up!

Chris, thanks for sharing your story. Super inspirational

Your opening always gets me the urge to listen to NPR's Radiolab. Love both, btw. Keep rocking!

Omggg the beginning of this video already is worth to put like🥺🥺🥺

Iv recently discovered your channel its been one of the most important things Iv seen, I'm studying product design I have an ENTP type personality and just super flaky person to be honest I was probably gonna fail the course but these short videos have relay helped me reapply myself and stave off the boarder make the hard decisions and generally pull my head out my ass. Thanks guys its mattered so much!.

Damn I love your channel

you are very courageous Chris.. your life and struggles are motivating... I was a late bloomer in discovering myself that I have a passion in design. I am working in a non designing job, and oneday I will be stepping into this business too. Thanks for your video.

Thank you for sharing your story Chris, very inspiring! :)

loved this

Thanks for sharing Chis! I didn't decide to pursue design until I was 25 when I left the military. I was always an artistic kid, but my dad would always say that I'd never get a job as an artist and I needed to get a real job. I kinda use that as motivation, I whisper a little, "F You Dad," every time I land a job or pick up a meaty freelance gig.

Need more of these!

Thank you for sharing Master Do, can't wait for part 2! I've gone through my own journey of tears and frustration to see the light and through that I see that the only option for me is a life of art and design. I'm in a little known college right now in an accelerated program for graphic design and I work my ass off to finish all of my projects on time as well as getting freelance work to pay the bills since I don't have student loans. Then I go to school and see some of my classmates who slack off hard and don't take this seriously. I wish I could literally punch the light right into them. Know of any way to do so?

Man your intro is awesome. I love it. Every video I enjoy it very much.

Love these, great job guys!

I'm late in seeing this video but when I was 18 I went through a very similar experience. Everything in my life seemed to be falling apart, my parents were constantly on my back, my friends were drifting away, I'd just divorced myself from a manipulative friendship and my relationship was ending. As college ended I killed the old me and by the time I started University. I gave myself the same ultimatum. I'm 21 now, I still haven't quite reached the point where I am ready to start capitalising on my skills but that's simply a consequence of my desire to be good at everything. There's only so many hours in a day so I've come to accept that my path will always be slower. I've had doubts recently so this video has come along at a perfect time.

Cool Intro. I like the constant improvements. Well done!

This is very helpful 🙌

Thanks for the informative vid! I have to agree with some of the posts below, that 17 is pretty early in my view, as I was about 24, and just moved to London before I decided to do a course in digital imaging, and learnt Photoshop etc. Before that I always used to like messing around in Paintshop (I think that was what it was called) and creating cards and stuff for people. Mainly just doing pretty stuff but never really considered graphic design as a job. After my course I spent many years going from marketing roles to web content management to reprographics, but always trying for more creative roles. I always had in the back of my mind a goal that I would be doing a proper design job eventually. I now freelance design and photography but I'm still learning and thought previously that I would have an 'aha' moment where I would know everythiing and be able to apply it and tell people the right way to do stuff, but I'm still learning from people like you and the futur (and Aaron draplin who is awesome!). Part of the fun of this sphere of work is that it's a lifelong learning process and there's always some technique or method that you haven't thought of before. Keep up the good work with the videos, the content is awesome and some of teh best one the web!

14:58, Been there! You're great for sharing this

Awesome dude, thanks for sharing your story with us. Me being a musically oriented person this reminds me Brother Ali's - "Freedom Ain't Free" especially the first verse.

THIS DUDE IS MY IDOL! I want to become a MASTER GRAPHIC DESIGNER.

Im 27 and have already been to College but Im going back in a couple of Months. I'll start by saying that when going i went to College the first time i knew what I wanted to become, A concept artist because It had caught my interest when I was a kid. But as soon as about 3rd semester my interests had changed. I never realized that you can do videos which in all honesty was really fun for me and it also caught my interests. But I continued to dabble in other things like game design, web design, guitar composition. The reason why I never graduated college was because honestly I blew off most of the classes and just decided to hang out with friends and hit on girls because I never had that experience in high school or in my hometown and it was the place where there were other people like me there. That was my biggest mistake. When I supposedly walked the stage, they neglected to tell me that I had failed a very important class which was portfolio design. The big one. So after the ceremonies, I was hoping for my diploma to arrive so that i could go venturing out looking for jobs. But sadly nothing. I went back to that same college and asked what was the hold up, they told me the reason i had stated. Failing a Class. So i eventually did go back but my parents insisted on getting me a job and that got in the way and again I failed the class. So I went full time with this job i had and it wasn't bad until they changed my hours to where i had to work nights to mornings not to long ago. It was the most stressful and tiring time shift i had ever suffered thru. My sleeping schedule got messed up and I wasn't able to sleep correctly. I asked for a regular time shift they granted me that but it was at that moment that I really understood the consequences of not excelling at College like i should've done before and ending up with a hard job like this one. I was gonna go back eventually but for sure this was not the path I should take. Lesson to be learned, never blow off your education. You will end up at the bottom of the barrel if you do. Prove everyone wrong.

I've been watching your videos for the past two weeks, and I can only thank you for doing this, like literally this has got to be best channel ever. I wonder why you still don't have like millions of subscribers, because your content is just SO GOOD! I mean, you give us a deep insight about business, but you also put some different and unique content out there, like this video, and it is awesome. Next time I go to the US I will make sure to spare some time to visit Blind!

Deep. I was able to have my Vader moment by writing Two Miles Past a Meltdown Volumes 1-3. Music saved me, much like design saved you. These moments are character-shaping, and it's so cool to hear how you were able to rise from that former self.

Wow. I never heard your story, Chris Do. I went to San Diego City College Design Program, too. Candice Lopez rocks. I didn't find my true passion until I hit 40. When I found design, I was hit with a lightning bolt. Up until that time, it was as if I was sleepwalking through life. I woke up and felt really alive--my creative self had been buried inside. I loved design. At first, it wasn't easy. Still, it consumed me. I worked hard. I didn't know Adobe Creative Suite, so I enrolled in another program at Mira Costa Community College to take full semesters to learn the CS software inside and out, to become adept at Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop, Dreamweaver, CSS, HTML, while I was also going to the City College Design program full time. I was also taking Fine Art classes. I immersed myself in it, 12 hours a day with classes and design work. I was so lucky to have been lead to City College. Candice is the best. I was an older student and already had a Marketing Degree so I couldn't get to Art Center. But I learned so much from City College, the instructors, and the Portfolio Program. It is the best community college program in California! Candice Lopez is the most outstanding educator and designer. She always went above and beyond to help her students! You got to go to Candice's studio and Rafael critiqued your work? That's the coolest! Thank you for sharing your story. You inspire me and others so much!

i'm 17 and i resonate with the experiences you had, it feels horrible and i've yet to deal with it. Thanks for sharing, Chris it really helps

I think every artist can relate to this kind of story ♥️😔😔😔

I'm 20, I'm still in college and just got my first Design Job in a company here in Brazil, And man, you have no idea of how you gave me strengh to get there, everytime it looks like I'm not gonna make it, I watch Futur and get inspired to be mt best self.

chris you taught and inspired me so much , thanks!

I'm 17 too when I decided I wanted to be a designer. I'm 24 now and I yet have to start building a better portfolio. Your videos inspired me in so many ways and has encouraged me to pursue design more than ever.

I love seeing your journey, Chris. Inspires me

THANK YOU Chris Do, Like the other guy said I killed the old version of me. I've been a stuck artist designer for decades. I woke up to an explosion and flipped the inner chatter. I'm celebrating the 15 answers I know in the thousand interdisciplinary categories. From the bottom of my heart, thank, you "You Real-Deal Guru-Dude". If you make it to my area in Fullerton come see me. I'll be sprouting my wings as the Glass Butcher...

Thanks for sharing this amazing content

I think it’s amazing idea to share your way for becoming a graphic or web designer.

Thank you for sharing this. It is inspiring to hear the genesis of those you look up to. Gives hope to us making our journey.

damnnnn, I have to press subscribe now. You won me over.

at the time when I was in college i wanted to become a graphic designer, so i had to set a goal for myself to reach that level. im still trying to get there. but im building my own experience to make a break through by building a magazine. ine day, ill get there. im 28 now. and thank you for sharing your experience. love the show

Great video !!