As designers mature, we learn lots of lessons along the way! Especially when it comes to building our habits or how we interact with others. Finding long-term success can feel unreachable sometimes. Luckily here’s some tips that can help you find your rhythm as a designer!
The first task is simple, learning the basics!
A common phrase I heard when it came to making art “You need to know the rules to break them” and as fun as it was to break rules, it does take time to build up a solid foundation. Designers especially need to know the basics of typography, color theory, and grid design just to name a few.
When I started digitally creating, Adobe was definitely a learning curve. I would spend so much time on YouTube trying to perfect techniques or learn a new key command. That’s totally normal! Learning the basics of programs like Photoshop and Illustrator help you immensely in long-term success.
The next is harder…constructive feedback is gold.
If you’re a perfectionist (like many of us designers are) you are your worst enemy when it comes to feedback. Developing a thick skin and understanding that you won’t get everything perfect in the first few iterations will help you be successful down the road.
In classes as well as in client meetings, you will receive critiques. The best things to come out of those are new ideas and a fresh perspective on your work. One of my favorite things in my graphic design classes is getting to walk around and see everyone’s progress and throw in an observation or two. We get excited hearing that our design’s intentions are met, but it’s more fun to hear how others interpret the vibes the work gives off.
Sometimes critiques can feel unhelpful, especially when someone isn’t offering anything constructive. When that happens, I tend to meet the person with curiosity rather than frustration. “Is this design functioning correctly?” “Is its message not clear?” “What brand most effectively meets the goals you’re wanting me to meet?”
It pays off to get some questions answered than to leave the interaction feeling discouraged and like your work is “wrong”.
Collecting inspiration. Regularly!
Inspiration comes in many, many forms. Luckily so much of it is at our fingertips! If you find yourself feeling like your work is too repetitive and stuck in a box, it’s probably because you’re not processing new inspiration. Some easy ways to do this are:
- Visiting a gallery online or in person
- Study the work of a designer you enjoy
- Spend time in nature
- Read texts about design strategies
- Swap styles with another designer friend
- Listen to some new music
Let me know if you find success with any of these ideas in the comments!
And finally, never stop learning!
As a creative, learning will never stop. Technology will never stop evolving and neither does our mind. It’s very unlikely you’ll feel like you have everything solved, and that’s okay! Don’t stop being curious and your designs will thank you.
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