As with any learning experience, along my path as a design student I have picked up some wisdom, from both industry professionals and real-life experiences alike. The following is the beginning of a far from complete manifesto.
1. If you don’t find some degree of enjoyment in it, you’re probably doing the wrong thing. Everyone has certain things about jobs that they dislike, but if you feel no enjoyment or passion whatsoever in what you’re doing, try to explore new areas to find something that really inspires you.
2. Take a lot of walks. Walking semi-aimlessly allows for time to think, reflect, and perceive the world around you. It’s a good way to spot new advertising campaigns or become inspired by something you find interesting.
3. Be honest with yourself. If you know you’ll want to procrastinate on a project, make it a priority. If you know you’re settling on a design that is “meh”, push harder. Knowing when you can do better and setting goals to do so is the key to great accomplishments.
4. Seek knowledge and inspiration. To be well rounded as a designer, you should have a variety of interests and experiences to inspire your ideas. These things don’t just find you by chance, you have to go out looking for them and trying new things.
5. You can’t always be safe. In design and in life alike, sometimes you have to take risks. Sometimes risks are vital to gaining the knowledge and inspiration mentioned previously, and trying things that haven’t been done before is key to creating unique design.
6. Always listen to advice. Listening to it doesn’t mean you have to take it, but you should never decline or miss an opportunity to receive advice. You never know when you might learn something that will change your life.
7. Work in many different mediums. You don’t have to be good at it or even use it particularly for design, but everyone should break away from the sketchpad or the computer and create something with their hands. Creating things organically is cathartic and can inspire design projects.
8. If you’re getting frustrated, get away for a while. When I feel like I’ve hit a dead end with a concept or design problem or my ideas are marred by stressful thoughts, I find it’s crucial to get away from whatever is bothering you, even if it’s just for a little while. When you return to the problem, you will face it with more strength and a clearer mind.
9. A manifesto is never complete. There will always be new life lessons and wisdom passed on to you, and it is our choice to recognize and interpret these things in a way that will be useful and expanding.
