You Are More Than Just a Designer
It’s the new year so let’s talk. Designers pour their hearts and souls into their work. We spend countless hours crafting beautiful designs, often neglecting our own mental well-being. It’s a very personal experience and often we get caught up in the pursuit of the perfect portfolio, the dream job, or the recognition of our peers. But what happens when we achieve all of that? Are we truly fulfilled? What if we don’t achieve any of it?
The truth is, our worth as designers extends far beyond our job titles, our salaries, or the accolades we receive. We are more than just our portfolios or our latest projects. We are complex individuals with a HUGE set of talents, passions, relationships, and experiences.
So how can we embrace our true worth and live a more fulfilling life?
1. Nurture Your Creativity
We must nurture our own creativity. Make time for personal projects that inspire you. Experiment with new mediums and techniques. Step outside your comfort zone and explore different design disciplines.
2. Get a Growth Mindset
Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. View setbacks as learning experiences. Continuously seek new knowledge and skills to expand your design expertise. Remember, the design journey is a long marathon, not a sprint.
3. Build a Supportive Community
Connect with fellow designers who inspire and motivate you. Share your experiences, challenges, and triumphs. Surround yourself with a supportive community that understands the unique joys and struggles of the design profession.
4. Prioritize Your Well-being
Design can be a demanding profession. It’s essential to prioritize your physical and mental health. Make time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation, whether it’s spending time with friends, practicing mindfulness, or pursuing hobbies outside of design.
5. Embrace Your Unique Design Voice
Your design perspective is valuable and unique. Don’t compare yourself to others or try to imitate their style. Embrace your individuality and let your authentic voice shine through in your work.
Find your true worth and live a fulfilling life, both within and beyond the design world.
