Cat Neligan
I create websites and help small businesses develop their brand, through logo design, social media and document design.
I also run an online clothing and accessories company, featuring my animal-themed illustrations.
I currently live in South London, where I maintain my day job as a freelance designer, and my night job as an animal illustrator. I spend my days drinking good coffee and dipping my paw in peanut butter – between attempts at creating new designs for my clients and for Catillest. I like to wind down with a good book, and a doodle. And a whiskey, if you have any.
How did you started to work from home?
I quit my 9-5 two years ago, to pursue my dreams. I’m the youngest of four, which I guess makes me quite selfish by nature which I think influenced this decision – I’m determined to get what I want!
Which is to get my art out into the world, for others to enjoy. I also want to help others pursue their dreams, and that’s why I love working with the clients I help.
What is your normal day?
I’m a total early-bird, so my day usually starts at 5:30. I have a strict morning routine – yoga, meditation, journalling, doodling and finally… I get down to work. Once I have my coffee anyway!
Working from home I find it helpful to get out in the morning for a walk, to get my thoughts together and plan the day. I also like to get out mid afternoon – to a coffee shop usually – and work there. Partly to be in a different environment, and to be around others. It seems to keep me more focussed.
I try to shut down all technology at 8/9pm – then I repeat my morning routine with some reading, doodling, journalling and yoga, before getting some shuteye.
How often you work from home?
On average, half the month I spend working for myself (or clients) from home, and half the month I’m in-house, on contract jobs for clients in London.
How to look your home office?
I am fortunate enough to have a separate room to work in, as I’m currently living in my parents house! This is a temporary situation (I’d like to think!) and am looking to buy a houseboat. I love the idea of living on the water!
What would you say to people who want to start working from home?
Do it. Try it. Have a back up plan if you need, but whatever you do don’t let the lizard-brain deter you! (If you want to know what I mean by that, check out Seth Godin’s book ‘Linchpin’ – seriously a must-read for any creative… or anyone who wants to escape the ratrace.)
Thank you very much for your time!
Cat Neligan
Links:
Twitter: @Catillest
Facebook: facebook.com/catillest
Linkedin: uk.linkedin/catneligan
Examples of Cat’s work
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