Success in the interior design industry doesn’t just come from talent and creativity alone. Over the years, I’ve noticed certain habits that set the most successful interior designers apart from the crowd.

These habits are not only about how they work but also about how they think, learn, and interact with the world around them. Here are the five key habits I’ve observed in the most successful interior designers I’ve had the privilege to work with or mentor.

1. A Willingness and Hunger to Learn

The design world is ever-evolving, with new trends, technologies, and methodologies emerging all the time. Successful interior designers have an insatiable appetite for knowledge. They are constantly looking to update their skills, whether through formal education, attending workshops, or staying up-to-date with industry publications. This willingness to learn ensures they are always at the forefront of design innovation, enabling them to provide the best solutions for their clients and keep their work fresh and relevant.

2. They Show Up

Success is not just about what you know; it’s also about how you engage with others. The most successful designers make it a habit to show up consistently — whether it’s participating in live coaching sessions, attending masterclasses, engaging in community discussions, or networking within their industry. By being present, they not only gain valuable insights but also build strong relationships that can lead to new opportunities, collaborations, and a supportive network that can be invaluable during challenging times.

3. A Rock-Solid Mindset

The path to success is rarely smooth or straight. It’s filled with obstacles, challenges, and sometimes, failures. What sets successful designers apart is their mindset. They possess a resilience and a positive outlook that allows them to view setbacks as learning opportunities rather than insurmountable barriers. This rock-solid mindset keeps them focused on their goals and gives them the strength to push through tough times, continuously working towards their vision of success.

4. They Take Imperfect Action

Perfection can be the enemy of progress. The most successful interior designers understand that taking action, even if it’s not 100% perfect, is better than inaction. They are not afraid to try new ideas, pitch to big clients, or launch a new service, knowing that waiting for everything to be perfect may mean missing out on opportunities. This habit of taking imperfect action allows them to move forward, learn, and refine their approach as they go, rather than being paralysed by the fear of failure.

5. Understanding the Importance of Investing in Themselves and Their Business

Investment isn’t just financial; it’s also about investing time, energy, and resources into their growth and the growth of their business. Successful designers understand the value of investing in professional development, marketing, their brand, and sometimes, outsourcing tasks to focus on what they do best. They see these investments not as expenses but as essential steps towards achieving their long-term goals.

Adopting these habits doesn’t guarantee success overnight, but they lay the foundation for a fulfilling and prosperous career in interior design. By continually learning, showing up, maintaining a strong mindset, taking action, and investing in themselves, successful interior designers set themselves apart as leaders and innovators in their field.

For more on how to build a successful Interior Design business and expand your growth, tune in to my podcast “10 Must Do’s to Get to $100k.”