My advice would be to look around at examples of design that you think could be improved in your local area.

There are two reasons for this - firstly while you have time on your hands why not mock up changes or redesigns for potential clients without them requesting it - you then have an angle to approach them with and as long as you don't use them commercially it can't harm anyone.

Also if you target your local area while you are getting on your feet you can make sure that you are meeting your potential clients face to face at local networking groups etc. I have always had more confidence in taking a chance with young/new businesses if we have already developed a relationship before hand.

Good luck!

Nathaniel.