That’s it, folks. They finally pushed me over the edge today. I’m done with this 9 to 5 misery. No matter how much work you put in or how much money you make for them, they just don’t know how to appreciate hard work. And I still get the same paycheck every month.

I joined this company 4 years ago as a designer. I create logos and brand identities. During this time, I did some of my best work. Their design business used to make up only 5% of their revenue, now it’s 35%. I’m their main (and only) designer for logo design and branding. I’ve been due for a promotion for 2 years, and they just keep ignoring it. Today, I quit.

I’m a good designer. My clients love my work. The logos I’ve designed have become the face of successful businesses around the world. I’m going solo now. I’ve already started building my website, next up, socials.

Now here’s the issue: I already have a few ongoing projects with my ex company. These clients love my work, and they could be my future pipeline. I can’t just stop working on their projects, there are deadlines. But on the other hand, I took on these specific projects while I was still an employee at X company. If I continue them as a solo designer, it might land me in legal hot water.

So what should I do?