Category: Design

  • How I Crossed the Bridge of Self-Doubt and Insecurity as a Designer (And How You Can Too)

    Hey you,

    I see you. I see the late nights spent overthinking your designs, the hesitation before sharing your ideas, and the voice in your head whispering, “Am I good enough?” I’ve been there. I’ve sat in that exact same spot, staring at my screen, wondering if I even belonged in this field.

    But here’s the thing: I made it through. And if I can do it, so can you. Let me share my story and the lessons I learned along the way. Maybe it’ll help you find your own path across that bridge of self-doubt and insecurity.

    1. I Realized I Wasn’t Alone

    When I first started, I felt like everyone around me had it all figured out. They spoke confidently in meetings, presented their work with ease, and seemed to know exactly what they were doing. Meanwhile, I was second-guessing every decision I made.

    But then I had a conversation with a senior designer I admired. I confessed how lost I felt, and to my surprise, they said, “I still feel that way sometimes.” That was a turning point for me. I realized that self-doubt isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a sign that you care. And caring is the first step to becoming great at what you do.

    2. I Started Small

    I used to think I had to create masterpieces right out of the gate. Spoiler: I didn’t. And neither do you. What helped me was starting small. I focused on one task at a time—whether it was perfecting a button design or improving the hierarchy of a landing page.

    Each small win gave me a little more confidence. Over time, those small wins added up, and I began to trust myself more.

    3. I Learned to Separate Feedback from My Self-Worth

    Early on, I took every piece of feedback as a personal attack. If someone didn’t like my design, I felt like they didn’t like me. It took me a while to realize that feedback isn’t about me—it’s about the work.

    I started asking better questions: “What’s not working here?” or “How can this better serve the user?” Shifting my mindset from “I’m not good enough” to “How can I improve this?” made all the difference.

    4. I Found My People

    One of the hardest parts of being a new designer is feeling like you’re on an island. I rarely spoke up because I was afraid of saying the wrong thing. But then I found a community—online forums, design meetups, and even a few coworkers who became my sounding board.

    Having people who understood what I was going through made me feel less alone. They encouraged me to share my ideas, even when I wasn’t sure they were “good enough.” And you know what? More often than not, they were.

    5. I Embraced the Messy Middle

    I used to think that great designers just magically came up with perfect solutions. But the truth is, design is messy. It’s about experimenting, failing, and trying again.

    I learned to embrace the messy middle. Instead of stressing over getting it right the first time, I focused on iterating and improving. Each iteration taught me something new, and slowly, I began to trust my process.

    6. I Stopped Comparing Myself to Others

    This was a big one for me. I’d scroll through Dribbble or Behance and feel like I’d never measure up. But then I realized something: comparison is a thief of joy. Everyone’s journey is different.

    I started focusing on my own growth instead of someone else’s highlight reel. I celebrated my progress, no matter how small, and reminded myself that I was on my own path.

    7. I Found My Voice

    Speaking up was terrifying at first. I’d rehearse what I wanted to say in my head, only to stay silent when the moment came. But I realized that my ideas mattered—even if they weren’t perfect.

    I started small. I’d ask a question in a meeting or share a thought in a Slack channel. The more I did it, the easier it became. And over time, I found my voice.

    8. I Learned to Be Kind to Myself

    This was the hardest lesson of all. I was my own worst critic, constantly beating myself up for not being “better.” But I realized that growth takes time. I started treating myself with the same kindness I’d show a friend.

    When I made a mistake, I reminded myself that it was part of the process. When I felt insecure, I acknowledged it without judgment. Slowly, I began to believe in myself.

    9. I Realized Confidence Is a Journey, Not a Destination

    Even now, I still have moments of self-doubt. But I’ve learned that confidence isn’t about never feeling insecure—it’s about moving forward anyway. It’s about trusting yourself enough to take the next step, even when you’re not sure where it will lead.

    You’re Stronger Than You Think

    If you’re feeling stuck, unsure, or insecure, know this: you’re not alone. Every designer has been where you are. The fact that you’re here, trying to grow, shows how much you care. And that’s the mark of a great designer.

    Take it one step at a time. Celebrate your wins, learn from your mistakes, and keep going. You’ve got this.

    With love and solidarity,
    Someone who’s been in your shoes 💛

    P.S. If you ever need to talk, I’m here. Sometimes, just knowing someone understands can make all the difference.

  • Holistic Design That Drives Business: Key Takeaways from the Target Design Meet

    Holistic Design That Drives Business: Key Takeaways from the Target Design Meet

    As a design leader, sharing insights from significant events like the Target Design Meet can provide valuable knowledge and inspiration to the broader design community. The recent Target Design Meet, themed “Holistic Design that Drives Business,” offered a wealth of information on achieving design excellence through inclusive design, retail marketing, and brand building at scale. Here are the detailed takeaways from this insightful event:

    1. Tarzhay: The Magic of Target

    Speaker: Prashant Chandrashekar, Director of CGI/3D

    Key Insights: Prashant took the audience on a journey through the history of Target, highlighting the brand’s evolution and the immense value it has brought to the world. He emphasized how Target has consistently used innovative design and CGI/3D techniques to create a unique and engaging brand identity. These efforts have not only enhanced the visual appeal of Target but also strengthened its connection with customers.

    Takeaway: Understanding the historical context and the strategic use of design can significantly contribute to building a brand that resonates with people on a deeper level.

    2. Crafting Branding at Target

    Speaker: Swetha Mohare, Creative Director at Brand Design Lab, Target

    Key Insights: Swetha provided an in-depth look at the meticulous branding strategies employed at Target. She discussed how a cohesive brand identity is crafted through careful design choices and consistent messaging. By focusing on the details that matter to customers, Target has managed to create memorable experiences that drive brand loyalty.

    Takeaway: Cohesive branding is crucial for creating lasting customer relationships. Every design element should work together to tell a consistent and compelling brand story.

    3. Panel Discussion: In Pursuit of Design Excellence

    Host: Rakesh Mishra, SVP Marketing and Digital, Target

    Panelists:

    • Dr. Geetha Narayanan, Founder Director, Srishti Institute of Art, Design and Technology
    • Anushka Saini, Founder & Creative Director, Thought Over Design
    • Susan Mathen, Co-founder and Strategy Director, Hue & Why

    Key Insights: The panel discussion explored various dimensions of design excellence, focusing on innovation, sustainability, and cross-disciplinary collaboration. Each panelist shared their unique perspective on what it takes to achieve excellence in design and how thoughtful, innovative approaches can solve complex problems and drive business success.

    Takeaway: Design excellence is a multifaceted goal that requires innovation, sustainability, and collaboration across different disciplines. Engaging with diverse perspectives can lead to richer, more effective design solutions.

    4. Inclusive Design at Target

    Speaker: Sneha Stephen, Creative Leader – Retail Marketing

    Key Insights: Sneha highlighted the importance of inclusive design in creating shopping experiences that are accessible and equitable for all customers. She shared strategies for integrating inclusivity into Target’s retail marketing efforts, ensuring that all customers feel valued and represented.

    Takeaway: Inclusive design is not just a moral imperative but also a business strategy that can lead to broader market appeal and increased customer loyalty. Designing with inclusivity in mind ensures that all users have a positive experience.

    5. Brands at Scale

    Key Insights: This session focused on the challenges and strategies for building and maintaining brand consistency across diverse markets and platforms. It highlighted the importance of scalable design systems in achieving global brand recognition.

    Takeaway: Scaling a brand requires consistent design systems that can be adapted to various markets without losing the core brand identity. This consistency helps in building a recognizable and trusted brand worldwide.

    6. Driving Relevancy for Retail Media

    Key Insights: The discussion centered on how retail media can be leveraged to enhance customer engagement and drive sales. It emphasized the role of data-driven insights in creating relevant and impactful marketing campaigns.

    Takeaway: Utilizing data-driven insights can help in crafting marketing campaigns that are not only relevant but also highly effective in engaging customers and driving business outcomes.

    Networking Opportunity

    The event concluded with a high tea and networking session, providing attendees with the opportunity to connect, share ideas, and foster collaborations.

    Takeaway: Networking is a vital component of professional growth. Engaging with peers and industry leaders can lead to new ideas, partnerships, and opportunities.

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    Conclusion

    The Target Design Meet underscored Target’s commitment to design excellence, innovation, and inclusivity. It showcased how thoughtful design, when aligned with business goals, can drive significant success. As design leaders, it’s essential to incorporate these insights into our practice, continually striving to create designs that are not only functional but also meaningful and inclusive.

  • Comparing Apples and Oranges: Embracing Diversity in Employee Evaluation

    Comparing Apples and Oranges: Embracing Diversity in Employee Evaluation

    In the corporate world, the phrase “comparing apples and oranges” is often used to emphasize the difficulty of evaluating dissimilar things. However, this metaphor offers a valuable perspective on the complexities of employee evaluation. By recognizing the unique qualities of both “apples” and “oranges” within a team, organizations can create a more inclusive and effective evaluation system.

    The Unique Traits of Apples and Oranges

    Apples are often associated with simplicity and consistency. They symbolize reliability, steadiness, and a classic approach. In a corporate context, an “apple” employee might be someone who excels in established processes, delivers consistent results, and maintains a dependable presence within the team. These are the backbone employees who ensure the daily operations run smoothly.

    Oranges, on the other hand, are vibrant and multifaceted. They represent creativity, diversity, and innovation. An “orange” employee might be the one who brings fresh ideas, challenges the status quo, and drives the organization forward through creativity and ingenuity. These employees are the catalysts for change and growth.

    The Corporate Orchard: Cultivating a Balanced Team

    In a thriving orchard, both apples and oranges are essential. Similarly, a balanced corporate team requires both types of employees. Here’s why:

    • Stability and Innovation: Apples provide the stability and reliability necessary for sustaining business operations. Oranges introduce innovative solutions that keep the company competitive and adaptable to market changes.
    • Process and Progress: Apple employees are masters of process optimization, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness. Orange employees focus on progress, pushing boundaries and exploring new frontiers.
    • Consistency and Creativity: Consistency in delivery builds trust with clients and stakeholders, while creativity keeps the business dynamic and forward-thinking.

    Evaluating Apples and Oranges: A Holistic Approach

    To fairly evaluate both apples and oranges in the corporate world, companies need a holistic approach that acknowledges the unique contributions of each type of employee. Here are some strategies:

    • Customized Metrics: Develop evaluation metrics that reflect the different roles and contributions of apple and orange employees. For apples, metrics might focus on reliability, accuracy, and efficiency. For oranges, consider innovation, adaptability, and impact on growth.
    • 360-Degree Feedback: Incorporate feedback from a variety of sources—peers, supervisors, and subordinates. This provides a well-rounded view of an employee’s performance and highlights their strengths in different contexts.
    • Development Opportunities: Recognize that apples might benefit from opportunities to engage in creative projects, while oranges might need support in process-driven tasks. Tailor development plans to nurture their growth in complementary areas.
    • Inclusive Recognition: Ensure that recognition programs celebrate both consistent performance and innovative achievements. This fosters a culture where both types of contributions are valued and encouraged.

    Embracing Diversity in Employee Strengths

    By understanding and appreciating the unique qualities of both apples and oranges, companies can create a more inclusive and effective evaluation system. This approach not only enhances employee satisfaction and engagement but also drives organizational success through a balanced blend of stability and innovation.

    In the end, the goal is not to compare apples to oranges but to cultivate a diverse orchard where every employee can thrive and contribute to the company’s flourishing future.

    What are your apples and oranges? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments! Let’s discuss how we can better appreciate and evaluate our unique contributions

  • How Change is Created:

    How Change is Created:

    Stumbled upon this image in x.com source, Based on the image I would like to share my thoughts.

    Change is often perceived as a daunting, elusive concept that many struggle to grasp and implement in their lives. However, understanding the stages of change can transform this complex process into a manageable and achievable journey. The image above succinctly captures the essence of how change is created, breaking it down into eight interconnected stages: Idea, Thoughts, Feelings, Plan, Habits, Commitment, Lifestyle, and finally, Change. As a coach, guiding individuals through these stages can empower them to make lasting transformations in their lives.

    Stage 1: Idea

    Every significant change starts with a simple idea. This is the seed of transformation, a spark of inspiration that sets the journey in motion. As a coach, it’s crucial to help individuals recognize and articulate this initial idea. Encourage them to reflect on their aspirations and identify what they truly want to change.

    Stage 2: Thoughts

    Once the idea is identified, it begins to take shape in our thoughts. This stage involves contemplating the idea, weighing its possibilities, and envisioning potential outcomes. At this point, it’s essential to cultivate a positive and proactive mindset. As a mentor, facilitate discussions that challenge limiting beliefs and encourage expansive thinking.

    Stage 3: Feelings

    Thoughts inevitably stir emotions. How an individual feels about the idea can significantly impact their motivation and commitment. This stage is about aligning emotions with the vision of change. As a coach, help individuals navigate their feelings, addressing fears, and fostering excitement and passion for the change they desire.

    Stage 4: Plan

    With thoughts and feelings aligned, the next step is to create a concrete plan. This involves setting clear, achievable goals and outlining actionable steps. The plan serves as a roadmap, providing direction and focus. As a mentor, guide individuals in developing a realistic and comprehensive plan, emphasizing the importance of setting SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals.

    Stage 5: Habits

    Consistency is key to sustaining change. At this stage, the plan needs to be translated into daily habits. Habits are the building blocks of lasting change, and developing them requires discipline and perseverance. Encourage individuals to start small, gradually incorporating new habits into their routine. Provide tools and techniques for habit formation, such as habit stacking and accountability partners.

    Stage 6: Commitment

    Commitment is the glue that holds the change process together. It’s the unwavering dedication to stick to the plan and maintain the new habits. Reinforce the importance of commitment, helping individuals stay motivated and resilient in the face of challenges. Regular check-ins and progress reviews can be invaluable in sustaining commitment.

    Stage 7: Lifestyle

    As new habits become ingrained, they begin to shape a new lifestyle. This stage represents a shift from temporary changes to a sustained way of living. Celebrate this transformation, acknowledging the effort and perseverance required to reach this point. Encourage individuals to embrace their new lifestyle and continue refining it.

    Stage 8: Change

    The final stage is the realization of change. This is the culmination of the journey, where the initial idea has transformed into a tangible reality. It’s a moment of achievement and fulfillment. As a coach, help individuals reflect on their journey, recognizing the growth and learning that has occurred. Encourage them to use this experience as a foundation for future changes.

    Conclusion

    Change is a multifaceted journey that requires clarity, effort, and persistence. By understanding and navigating through these eight stages, individuals can transform their ideas into reality. As a coach or mentor, your role is to guide, support, and empower them at each stage, helping them achieve meaningful and lasting change. Remember, change is not a destination but a continuous journey of growth and self-improvement. Embrace it, and inspire others to do the same.

  • Designing a Balanced Life: Insights for Artists and Designers

    Designing a Balanced Life: Insights for Artists and Designers

    Achieving a healthy work-life balance is essential for creatives who often pour their hearts into their projects. Let’s explore some practical tips and strategies to maintain equilibrium between your professional endeavors and personal life:

    1. Solo Adventure Day

    Consider dedicating one day each week to self-care and adventure. Use this day to recharge, explore new places, try new activities, or simply relax. Whether it’s hiking, dancing, or lounging in bed, prioritize what helps you rebalance.

    2. Task Time Capsule

    Start your day by tackling the most challenging or least enjoyable task first. This approach, known as “eating the frog,” sets a productive tone and makes the rest of your day feel more manageable.

    3. Limit Perfectionism

    Distinguish between working hard and striving for perfection. Perfectionism can lead to burnout. Instead, focus on progress and excellence without overextending yourself.

    4. Leave Work at Work

    Create clear boundaries between work and personal time. When you’re off the clock, unplug and disconnect. Prioritize self-care and relaxation during non-work hours.

    5. Gauge Your Health

    Regularly assess your physical and mental well-being. Listen to your body and mind. If you need rest, take it. Prioritize health over excessive work.

    6. Participate in Personal Hobbies

    Engage in activities that bring you joy outside of work. Whether it’s painting, playing an instrument, or gardening, these hobbies nourish your soul.

    7. Spend Time with Loved Ones

    Nurture your relationships. Quality time with family and friends provides emotional support and reminds you of life beyond work.

    8. Establish Your Own Balance

    Remember that work-life balance is unique for everyone. Define what balance means to you and adjust accordingly. Prioritize what truly matters.

    9. Love Your Career

    Passion fuels creativity. Cultivate love for your craft, and it won’t feel like work. Find purpose and fulfillment in what you do.

    Remember, achieving balance is an ongoing process. Adapt these strategies to your creative journey, and create a meaningful life beyond your projects.

  • Mindfulness and Design: How Practices Like Mindfulness and Meditation Enhance Creativity and Productivity

    Mindfulness and Design: How Practices Like Mindfulness and Meditation Enhance Creativity and Productivity

    Introduction

    In the fast-paced world of design, where creativity and innovation drive success, finding ways to enhance productivity and foster original ideas is crucial. Enter mindfulness—a practice that has gained significant attention for its positive impact on cognitive processes. In this blog post, we explore how mindfulness can benefit designers, boost creativity, and lead to more effective design outcomes.

    What Is Mindfulness?

    Mindfulness is the art of paying attention intentionally, in the present moment, and without judgment¹. It involves techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and focused observation. By quieting the mind’s noise, mindfulness creates space for clarity and creative thoughts to flourish.

    The Impact of Mindfulness on Creativity
    1. Enhanced Focus and Attention: Just a few minutes of mindful meditation before diving into design work can improve focus and attention span. As designers, we often juggle multiple ideas and tasks. Mindfulness helps us stay present and engaged, leading to better concentration.
    2. Divergent Thinking: Mindfulness encourages divergent thinking—the ability to generate a wide range of creative ideas. By letting go of preconceptions and judgments, designers can explore unconventional solutions and push boundaries.
    3. Reduced Overthinking: Overthinking stifles creativity. Mindfulness practices help us avoid the trap of endless deliberation. Instead, we learn to trust our instincts and allow ideas to flow naturally.
    4. Clarity in Problem-Solving: When faced with design challenges, mindfulness provides mental clarity. It allows us to step back, assess the problem objectively, and find innovative solutions.
    Practical Tips for Designers
    1. Morning Mindfulness Routine: Start your day with a short mindfulness practice. Sit quietly, focus on your breath, and set positive intentions for your design work.
    2. Mindful Sketching: Before creating digital designs, sketch your ideas on paper mindfully. Pay attention to each stroke and let creativity flow.
    3. Design Sprints with Mindfulness Breaks: During intense design sprints, take mindful breaks. Step away from the screen, breathe deeply, and reset your mind.
    4. Mindful Critique Sessions: When receiving feedback, practice active listening without judgment. Mindfulness helps you absorb feedback constructively.
    Conclusion

    Mindfulness isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a powerful tool for designers. By incorporating mindfulness practices into your routine, you’ll enhance creativity, boost productivity, and create more impactful designs. So, take a deep breath, be present, and let your creativity flourish!

    Remember, the canvas of your mind is as important as the one on your screen.

    I hope you find this blog post insightful! If you have any other topics you’d like me to explore, feel free to ask.

  • Navigating the UX Maze: Real Challenges Faced by Design Managers

    Navigating the UX Maze: Real Challenges Faced by Design Managers

    As a UX design manager, navigating the intricate landscape of user experience can be both rewarding and challenging. Let’s delve into some realistic hurdles that you might encounter on your journey:

    1. Undervaluation of UX within Organizations:

    • UX work is often misunderstood or overlooked by upper management. Advocacy from the UX leader or manager is crucial to emphasize the importance of data-driven, customer-centric decision-making.
    • Solution: Champion UX design as essential for business success and resource allocation.

    2. Balancing Aesthetics, Functionality, and Accessibility:

      • Design isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating effective solutions. Striking the right balance between visual appeal, functionality, and accessibility is a constant challenge.
      • Solution: Prioritize inclusive design, considering diverse user needs and sensory impairments.

      3. Bridging the Gap Between Development and Design:

      • Collaborating with developers can be tricky. Some designs may face resistance or rejection due to technical limitations.
      • Solution: Foster open communication, involve developers early, and find common ground.

      4. User Research Challenges:

      • Gathering meaningful insights requires overcoming obstacles like tight budgets, deadlines, and limited resources.
      • Solution: Prioritize research activities, leverage remote testing, and focus on high-impact studies.

      5. Aligning with Business Goals:

      • Balancing user needs with business objectives can be tough. UX managers must ensure their team’s efforts contribute to overall success.
      • Solution: Set clear UX OKRs (Objectives and Key Results) that align with broader business goals.

      Remember, each challenge is an opportunity for growth. By sharing personal stories and strategies, you can inspire fellow designers and create a supportive community. 🚀✨.

    1. Travel and Design: A Creative Journey

      Travel and Design: A Creative Journey

      Let’s delve into the fascinating connection between travel and design.

      1. Igniting Creativity Through Travel

      When interior designers embark on journeys, they unlock a treasure trove of inspiration. Here’s how travel fuels their creativity:

      • Neurological Impact: Traveling stimulates our neural pathways, enhancing creativity. Just as CBD and mushrooms can expand our mental horizons, immersing ourselves in new cultures, languages, and experiences sparks fresh ideas.
      • Change in Perspective: Travelers become more open-minded and confident. Exposure to diverse cultures allows designers to see things differently. From toilets to interior décor, each country offers unique design executions. By embracing these differences, designers broaden their creative possibilities.
      • Aesthetic Exploration: Travel exposes designers to global trends and aesthetic fixations they might not have noticed before. These newfound influences enrich their work, resulting in more beautiful and culturally informed designs.
      2. Cultural Influence in Design

      Understanding different cultures deeply enriches design. By celebrating diversity and collaborating across borders, designers create work that resonates globally while honoring local uniqueness.

      3. Artistic Inspiration from Travel

      Artists, too, find solace in travel. Here’s how it shapes their artistic choices:

      • Escape from Routine: Travel breaks the monotony of daily life, allowing artists to immerse themselves in diverse cultures.
      • Broadening Horizons: New insights gained during travel expand artistic perspectives. Exposure to different art forms, traditions, and landscapes fuels creativity.
      • Influencing Choices: Artists draw inspiration from their travel experiences, incorporating elements they’ve encountered into their work.
      Conclusion

      Whether you’re an interior designer or an artist, travel serves as a wellspring of creativity. So pack your bags, explore the world, and let its beauty infuse your designs and art! 🌟✈️🎨

      Note: Inspiration can emerge anywhere, so even short trips can spark creativity. Keep your eyes open!

      Feel free to share your thoughts or ask for more details!