"The Best Productivity Tool? Taking a Walk."
From social ads to event promotions and explainer animations: animator and motion designer Max has been bringing them to life for nearly a decade. He started out working in-house for brands like Greenchoice, Tony’s Chocolonely, and 113 Suicide Prevention. Now, he runs his own business under the name Max Motions.
How it started
Max: “I've had the urge to create for as long as I can remember: drawing, murals, posters, flyers, and logos. During my first job, I discovered the magic of animation. I worked for various agencies for a long time, but last year, I decided to go freelance. Starting out as an entrepreneur can be quite overwhelming, as there’s a lot to set up: from building a website and registering with the Chamber of Commerce to opening a business account. But seeing your own business take shape over time is incredibly rewarding. I love working on my own brand.”
The USP
"I listen to what my clients want to communicate and look for the hidden gems in their stories. Only then do I start creating. From the very beginning, I decided to present myself not as a studio but under my own name. Personal connections lead to the best collaborations. I want people to think: ‘Do you need an animation? Just call Max.’ That’s why I consider the ‘About’ page on my website just as important as my portfolio.”
This keeps Max going
Tool
"I make daily to-do lists in my notes app, keep a project tracker for ongoing work, and use Moneybird for my admin and bookkeeping. But honestly, my best productivity tool is just taking a walk and, when possible, fitting in a short workout."
Media
"The book Atomic Habits focuses on the process rather than the long road to the finish line. Making small tweaks every day may seem insignificant at the time, but over time, they build into something bigger. That mindset brings a sense of peace."
Entrepreneurship
"The flexibility to stop early, squeeze in a workout, or run errands is a major perk of being self-employed. But that doesn’t mean working less. It’s actually the opposite."
Energy
"I get my energy from collaborating with other creatives and clients. Also from strength training, boxing, listening to music, having no obligations, being outdoors, spending quality time with my family, visiting the petting zoo with my oldest daughter, seeing friends, and tidying up."
Quote
“Keep showing up. And be better than you were yesterday.”
Curious about Max’s work? Visit his website to learn more about Max Motions.