Rachel Woods doesn’t just like her job, she will instead enthusiastically tell you she really, really loves her job. As a lead Web and graphic designer, Rachel works for herself and a long list of clients. She’s one of those people that doesn’t just see an assignment and complete it. Instead, she likes to see it, dream about it, put her best creative foot forward and then apply a little brainy Search Engine Optimization savvy behind it. She came up with something called “The Rachel Method,” which is how she describes her design and Web search prowess to her clients. Because she works for herself, Rachel has the opportunity to spend a lot of time with her adorable girls. She finds inspiration (and some relaxation) in a nice bubble bath. And she has a soft spot for autumn, which of course she finds inspiration in as well!

Rachel Woods
Occupation: Lead Web/Graphic Designer + Dreamer
Website: rachelwoods.com

How did you discover your current job?

Through a leap of faith, I quit my day job and started my own company. What others may view as a big risk, to me just felt GOOD!

What has been your path so far to get you where you are today?

As far back as I could remember, I have always been creative in some way. My favorite subjects in school were art and English. In the seventh grade, I remember painting a landscape using only dots. It was so much fun, and I truly looked forward to adding a few more dots every week. In my senior year of high school, I won an award for my black-on-black pottery. I remember staying after school just to complete it. As if the signs weren’t obvious enough, I still didn’t know what I wanted to do for a living.

Then one day, Web design kind of sort of fell into my lap. A friend of mine had hired a company to create a logo for him. When he showed me the finished result, and I was able to easily duplicate it in five minutes within Photoshop, I knew I was onto something. From there it was tutorial after tutorial, book after book and learning after learning.

Was there any one situation that helped you along your way?

When I finally believed 2,000 percent in my skills and talents, it really helped catapult me to the next level. Following my gut has also been a tremendous help in getting me where I have gotten today!

What is your typical day like? Does it ever change?

I drop my girls off at school, get a coffee, drive or walk around for inspiration, go back to my home office and work! Whenever I feel like I need inspiration I take a bubble bath, go for a walk or work out a bit. The best part of it all is that yes, my day changes every day!

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

Freedom, creativity  and fun. Freedom to do what I want, when I want and how I want. Freedom to spend time with my family without restrictions. The ability to be creative every day. Best of all, to be able to have fun while I’m working!

What is the most challenging part?

Freedom and time management. I have no real boss. I have to be very strict with myself to know when it’s time to play and when it’s time to work. Getting — and staying — focused for me was key.

What is the biggest personal sacrifice you have to make because of your job?

The biggest sacrifice is I don’t receive a guaranteed paycheck. Sometimes it’s hard, but I know where I want this company to go, so it’s well worth the small sacrifice.

What is one lesson you’ve learned in your job that sticks with you?

Talking with small business owners every day has shown me that everyone has fears. Not everyone has the same fears, but we all have fears. You have to just push them aside, stay focused, and they seem to disappear.

What do you feel is the biggest challenge for women today, particularly females in your industry?

Believing in yourself. As a designer, you receive feedback all the time. Sometimes it’s awesome, and other times not so great. I had to learn to embrace good and bad criticism and learn from it.

Who are your role models?

My mom (who always pushed me to save money for a rainy day), my dad (who taught me how to be a dreamer), my older brother (who taught me how to have fun), my sister (who taught me how to push until I get what I want) and my younger brother (who inspires me to be more laid back like himself).

Is there a quote or mantra that you live by?

“You can only become truly accomplished at something you love. Don’t make money your goal. Instead, pursue the things you love doing, and then do them so well that people can’t take their eyes off you.”

- Maya Angelou

What advice do you have for girls who want to be in your industry?

If you love it, do it. Listen to yourself because only you know what is right for you.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Other people will tell you what they believe you can’t do. If YOU believe then you CAN do anything!