Main lesson from making things on the Internet is that the more creative you go, the more people dig it. Forget making things for average people. Serve the obsessives.
Unpopular opinion: Designers at top design companies aren't experts at all tools and skills.
They're hired for their ability to learn and implement as and when required.
Portfolio doesn't just mean having a website with your projects, but also demonstrating your design abilities. You can do this by building in public. Having a great presence online and helping new folks in design is a better portfolio doing a than community management course.
Struggling Designers:
Fiverr job at $20 for $200 work
Clients who undervalue
Smart designers:
Build brand
Set prices
Choose clients wisely
Quick $20 or the long game?
Your choice.