Meet Kelly Payton | Graphic Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kelly Payton and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kelly, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
I believe that in school, my life was work. I poured my heart and soul into getting this degree. And for that, there were times that my cup was never filled, because I was too busy filling the cups of my professors, peers, partners, and projects. The work did not always show *sleepless nights* and *bags under my eyes*, because there is a cap to productivity.

I have since learned to fill my cup first, always. I have a serious morning routine that consists of early rising, reading a book before checking my phone, meditating when I remember, breathing, drinking a glass of water, and sitting in gratitude.

Because of this, by the time I arrive at my desk, I am ready to take on the projects ahead. And now, my work brings me joy, fulfillment, satisfaction, eagerness to do better, purpose, constructive feedback, ways to work harder, and a love for the industry.

There are definitely times when work brings me hunger, sleep deprivation, back and shoulder pain, headaches, and sometimes hurt feelings – this is when I know my cup is not full, and it’s time to reset.

This *Reset* may look like: reading thriller novels and self help books, practicing and expanding my spirituality, organizing incessantly, preparing, cooking and eating healthy meals, lifting weights and breaking a sweat, stepping into the beautiful natural world, and communicating with loved ones.

I think this balance is of the utmost importance, and I would venture to say that it’s even more important than whatever job you find yourself in at the moment. Alignment with your higher self, or filling your cup, will lead you to a happier and more fulfilled state of being and keep you on a righteous path.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am currently a Graphic Design Freelancer for Seventy Seven Collective and Business RadioX®.

Graduating in a Pandemic was certainly not what I expected; 30 applications, 6 No’s and 24 Never Heard Backs.

The end of my College Career was done virtually, which did not meet my expectations whatsoever. There was no job opportunity in sight, and not a lot of hope for the world.

Nevertheless, She Persisted.

I began reading more, getting inspired by self help books. I stayed on AIGA ATL Student Board as President Emeritus and stayed connected with the community. I also picked up my life and moved with my Life Partner to Chattanooga, TN.

I could not be happier.

I’ve met incredible people, gained connections, shared my story, and am now doing work that excites me, gives me the freedom to work wherever I want, learn from intelligent and gracious supervisors, and feel fulfilled.

I have to say though, every supervisor, friend and peer that I’ve ever worked with has always held me in great light. And this is due to the never-ending respect and hard work that I give. I respect people’s time more than anything, and will communicate promptly whether or not I can execute the task at hand. I do not believe in procrastination, and I attribute so much of my success to the way I handle people.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
This is an interesting one, but I’ll do it for ATL and Chattanooga.

ATL: To Eat
– Rootstock and Vine
– Moxie Taco / Burger
– Zest Sushi
– Bold Monk Brewing

ATL: To Do
– Ponce City Market
– Piedmont Park
– Shop at Lenox Mall
– Hike Kennesaw Mountain

Chatt: To Eat
– STIR
– Cashew
– Whiskey Thief
– Paloma
– Mezcla
– Frothy Monkey

Chatt: To Do
– Walk the Walking Bridge
– Hike Signal Mountain
– Visit our friends at Rev Center for Optimal Living
– Hang at Coolidge Park

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
AIGA ATL Student Board, Sherra Bell, Darrell Noe, Stone Payton, and The Art Institute of Atlanta

Website: http://kellypayton.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellypayton_designs/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-payton-737a01176/