Category: Work life

  • 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.

  • Lessons from My Garden: Growth, Change & Leadership 

    There’s something magical about spending time in my terrace garden. It’s not just about the plants—it’s about the quiet lessons they teach me. Over the years, I’ve watched seedlings push through the soil, new leaves unfurl, and older, untended ones wither away. No matter how much I try to hold onto every leaf, nature has its own rhythm. The old makes way for the new, and life continues its cycle.

    This constant ebb and flow has become a powerful metaphor for leadership. Change is inevitable, and growth is intentional.

    The First Lesson: Letting Go

    When I first started gardening, I hesitated to prune my plants. Every leaf felt precious, and the idea of cutting anything away seemed counterintuitive. But I soon realized that clinging to what’s past its time only stunts growth. A plant thrives when it sheds the weak, allowing fresh, vibrant leaves to take over.

    In leadership, it’s the same. Holding onto outdated processes, ideas, or even roles prevents new growth. Letting go isn’t about loss—it’s about creating space for what’s next.

    Nurturing What’s Emerging

    The tiniest shoots in my garden often hold the most promise. With the right care—water, sunlight, and patience—they grow into the strongest branches. It’s a reminder that potential is everywhere, but it needs support to flourish.

    As leaders, our role is to nurture the emerging talent, ideas, and energy within our teams. Sometimes, the smallest spark can lead to the biggest breakthroughs.

    Adapting with the Seasons

    Plants don’t resist change—they adapt. They know when to bloom, when to conserve energy, and when to shed what’s no longer needed. They thrive because they flow with the seasons.

    Leadership, too, requires flexibility. Teams go through transitions, and what works in one season may not work in another. Adapting to change isn’t just a skill—it’s a necessity.

    Creating Space for Fresh Energy

    Every time I clear away the old leaves or trim back overgrown branches, I’m amazed at how quickly new growth appears. It’s a reminder that renewal leads to resilience.

    In our teams and organizations, creating space for fresh energy—whether it’s new ideas, people, or perspectives—is essential. It’s how we stay vibrant and relevant in a constantly changing world.

    The Heart of It All

    Every time I tend to my plants, I’m reminded: Growth isn’t about holding on—it’s about knowing when to let go. It’s about trusting the process, nurturing what’s emerging, and embracing the seasons of change.

    Nature has a way of teaching us the most profound lessons, if we’re willing to listen.

    What’s a Lesson You’ve Learned from Nature?

    I’d love to hear your stories. What has nature taught you about growth, change, or leadership? Let’s grow together.

  • The Ripple Effect of Behavior: A Journey Within

    The Ripple Effect of Behavior: A Journey Within

    As a People Manager

    I have often reflected on how behavior—both mine and my team’s—shapes the workplace. Professionalism, at its core, is about trust, respect, and alignment with shared goals. When professionalism falters, it creates ripples that impact not only performance but also the emotional and mental well-being of everyone involved.

    Let’s explore how this dynamic unfolds and what we, as leaders, can do to foster a culture of positivity and growth.

    When Behavior Impacts the Team

    The Strain on Relationships

    Unprofessional behavior—missed deadlines, dismissive attitudes, or broken promises—erodes the foundation of trust within a team. Over time, this strain fosters frustration, resentment, and disengagement, making collaboration challenging.

    Lost Opportunities for Growth

    A team thrives on mutual respect and the credibility built by consistent professionalism. When that credibility is compromised, opportunities for mentorship, collaboration, and career development diminish. As a manager, I’ve seen how even small lapses can limit someone’s potential.

    The Inner Conflict of Inauthenticity

    When team members act in ways that conflict with their values—whether due to pressure, stress, or miscommunication—it creates internal discord. As leaders, we need to help them realign with their core principles and support them through their challenges.

    The Reputation Equation

    Reputation is a silent force. For both individuals and teams, it shapes how others perceive and trust us. A tarnished reputation brings stress and anxiety, impacting not just the present but future opportunities.

    The Missing Sense of Fulfillment

    Professionalism is more than just doing the job; it’s about pride in doing it well. When unprofessional habits take root, the sense of accomplishment fades, leaving a void that affects morale and productivity.

    Fostering Professionalism: A Manager’s Role

    1. Create a Culture of Reflection

    Encourage self-awareness within the team. Regular check-ins and candid conversations can help individuals reflect on their actions and understand their impact. When mistakes happen, frame them as opportunities for learning rather than failures.

    2. Model Clear Communication

    As a manager, your words and actions set the tone. Communicate expectations clearly, provide timely feedback, and demonstrate transparency. When disagreements arise, show how respectful dialogue can lead to constructive solutions.

    3. Guide Time Management

    Help your team prioritize effectively. Share tools like calendars and task management apps, and lead by example by respecting deadlines and commitments. Support them in balancing workload to prevent burnout.

    4. Support Emotional Regulation

    Stressful situations are inevitable, but how we respond makes all the difference. Encourage mindfulness practices, such as taking a moment to breathe before reacting. Create an environment where it’s safe to express frustration constructively.

    5. Build Empathy Within the Team

    Foster a culture where team members value each other’s perspectives. Celebrate achievements, acknowledge challenges, and encourage understanding. This creates a cohesive and supportive work environment.

    6. Seek and Provide Constructive Feedback

    Feedback is a two-way street. Regularly ask your team how you can improve as their manager, and offer them actionable insights to grow. Emphasize feedback as a tool for development, not judgment.

    7. Invest in Development

    Professional growth is a shared responsibility. Facilitate learning opportunities through workshops, books, or mentorship programs. Share examples of professionalism from industry leaders to inspire your team.

    8. Respect Boundaries

    Encourage your team to set realistic boundaries and honor them. Lead by example by respecting work-life balance. This fosters a healthier, more focused, and committed team.

    9. Emphasize Consistency

    Consistency builds trust. Reinforce the importance of reliability, punctuality, and preparation in achieving both individual and collective goals.

    10. Highlight Positivity

    Recognize and celebrate positive behaviors. Gratitude—expressed sincerely—creates a ripple effect that elevates the entire team’s morale.

    A Manager’s Journey

    As managers, we have the unique privilege and responsibility of shaping the professional lives of those we lead. Professionalism is not just about adherence to rules; it’s about cultivating an environment where everyone feels valued, trusted, and empowered.

    By aligning our actions with our values and supporting our teams to do the same, we create not just successful teams, but fulfilling and meaningful workplaces.

  • 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.

  • Embracing Kaizen: A Creative Mind’s Guide to Continuous Improvement

    Embracing Kaizen: A Creative Mind’s Guide to Continuous Improvement

    In the world of creativity, where innovation and inspiration are paramount, the concept of Kaizen can be a powerful tool. Originating from Japan, Kaizen means “change for better” and revolves around the idea of continuous improvement. By integrating Kaizen principles into your daily life, you can unlock your full creative potential. Here’s how creative minds can use Kaizen to enhance their lives, with practical tips, real-life examples, and actionable takeaways.

    1. Embrace Small Changes for Big Impact

    Tip: Break down your creative projects into smaller tasks. Focus on making tiny improvements every day.

    Example: A writer working on a novel can aim to write just 200 words daily instead of trying to complete a chapter in one go. This consistent effort adds up and prevents burnout.

    Takeaway: Consistent, small steps lead to significant progress over time. Celebrate each small win as it brings you closer to your larger goals.

    2. Involve Others in Your Creative Process

    Tip: Collaborate with peers, seek feedback, and involve others in your creative journey.

    Example: An artist can join a local art group or an online community to share their work, receive constructive criticism, and gain new perspectives.

    Takeaway: Collaboration and feedback from others can spark new ideas and provide valuable insights, fostering continuous improvement in your work.

    3. Standardize Your Creative Routine

    Tip: Establish a regular creative routine that works for you and stick to it.

    Example: A musician could set aside one hour every morning for practice and composition, making this time a non-negotiable part of their day.

    Takeaway: A consistent routine creates a structured environment where creativity can flourish, making it easier to maintain momentum and track progress.

    4. Focus on Customer (Audience) Satisfaction

    Tip: Understand your audience’s needs and preferences, and tailor your work to meet or exceed their expectations.

    Example: A content creator can use analytics to understand what type of content resonates most with their audience and refine their approach based on this data.

    Takeaway: Keeping your audience in mind ensures that your creative output is relevant, engaging, and appreciated by those who consume it.

    5. Identify and Eliminate Waste

    Tip: Recognize areas where you might be wasting time, resources, or energy, and find ways to eliminate these inefficiencies.

    Example: A photographer might streamline their editing process by using presets and batch processing, reducing the time spent on repetitive tasks.

    Takeaway: By minimizing waste, you free up more time and energy to focus on the aspects of your work that truly matter, enhancing overall productivity and creativity.

    Real-Life Examples of Kaizen in Creativity

    • Pixar Animation Studios: Pixar employs a Kaizen-like approach by continuously refining their storytelling techniques and animation processes. Regular feedback sessions, known as “Braintrust” meetings, allow them to identify and address issues early on, leading to consistently high-quality films.
    • IDEO: This design and consulting firm uses iterative design processes, where they create multiple prototypes, test them, and make incremental improvements. This method ensures that the final product is both innovative and user-friendly.
    • Musicians and Songwriters: Many musicians, like Ed Sheeran, follow a disciplined, iterative approach to songwriting. They write and refine numerous songs, continuously improving their craft through practice and feedback.

    Actionable Steps to Implement Kaizen in Your Creative Life

    1. Set Clear, Achievable Goals: Define what you want to improve and break it down into manageable tasks.
    2. Track Your Progress: Keep a journal or use apps to monitor your daily improvements and identify patterns.
    3. Seek Continuous Learning: Stay curious and open to new techniques, tools, and perspectives in your field.
    4. Reflect and Adjust: Regularly review your progress and make necessary adjustments to your approach.
    5. Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and reward yourself for each small improvement, no matter how minor it may seem.

    Kaizen is more than just a business strategy; it’s a mindset that can transform your creative life. By embracing continuous improvement, involving others, standardizing your routine, focusing on your audience, and eliminating waste, you can enhance your creativity and achieve remarkable results. Start small, stay consistent, and watch as these incremental changes lead to significant creative breakthroughs.

    Incorporating Kaizen into your daily life can be the catalyst for unleashing your full creative potential. Embrace the journey of continuous improvement, and let your creativity soar to new heights.

  • Experience Sharing in Coaching and Mentoring

    Experience Sharing in Coaching and Mentoring

    I stumbled upon this image on Instagram and it got me thinking. In coaching and mentoring, the process where someone uses their own past experiences to guide and assist another person is often referred to as “experience sharing” or “experiential learning.”

    This can include sharing personal anecdotes, lessons learned, and insights gained from similar situations to help the mentee or coachee navigate their current challenges. It’s a way of leveraging one’s own journey to provide practical advice and support.

    Having said that, if an individual is not receptive, helping them becomes challenging. Effective mentoring and coaching rely on the mentee’s openness and willingness to engage, listen, and reflect. Without this receptiveness, even the best guidance may not have the desired impact.

    Here are some do’s and don’ts in this approach:

    Do’s:

    • Be Empathetic: Understand and relate to the mentee’s feelings and challenges.
    • Share Relevant Experiences: Offer anecdotes and lessons that directly relate to the mentee’s situation.
    • Encourage Openness: Foster an environment where the mentee feels safe to share and discuss their issues.
    • Listen Actively: Pay attention to what the mentee is saying without interrupting or immediately offering solutions.
    • Be Patient: Allow the mentee time to process and reflect on the shared experiences and advice.

    Don’ts:

    • Overwhelm with Information: Avoid sharing too much at once; focus on the most relevant experiences.
    • Impose Your Views: Respect the mentee’s perspective and avoid forcing your opinions on them.
    • Be Judgmental: Approach the mentee’s situation without criticism or preconceived notions.
    • Assume One-Size-Fits-All: Recognize that each individual’s journey is unique and tailor your advice accordingly.
    • Ignore Feedback: Be open to receiving feedback from the mentee and adjust your approach as needed.
  • 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.