Navigating the Design Road
Building Your Brand and Sharing Imperfections
In the ever-evolving world of design, each passing day brings new opportunities to ship products. With the advent of advanced tools and the assistance of AI, even those with a spark of curiosity can transform their ideas into tangible creations. As designers, we find ourselves at the forefront of this creative wave, but there's more to the journey than meets the eye.
While the tools at our disposal make the process easier, navigating the path to product delivery and value addition is no easy feat. Along this journey, we encounter numerous challenges that demand our attention and problem-solving skills. However, it's these challenges that shape us and push us to innovate further.
Amidst the hustle and bustle of the design world, one question often echoes in our minds: How do we make our voices heard? How do we ensure that our audience discovers our creations? And perhaps most importantly, how do we turn our hard work into profit?
The answer lies in two fundamental elements: our personal brand and our professional network. Often, success is not merely a matter of talent but rather the result of consistent effort and strategic networking. By investing in our brand and nurturing relationships within our industry, we pave the way for recognition and growth.
Reflecting on my own journey as a designer, I realize that I once held back from sharing my insecurities with my audience. My focus was solely on presenting flawless work that would impress others with its perfection. However, I soon discovered that this approach only led to discarding valuable pieces simply because they didn't align with a specific project.
It's essential to recognize that imperfection is not a hindrance but rather a catalyst for growth. Those "subpar" pieces we create are not failures but rather stepping stones in our evolution as designers. Embracing our flaws and vulnerabilities allows us to connect with our audience on a deeper level and foster authenticity in our work.
Yet, despite the importance of building our identity and network, many designers, including myself, often overlook these aspects. We let insecurities hold us back, fearing that our unique perspectives may not resonate with others. However, it's precisely these perspectives that set us apart and drive innovation in our field.
In the grand scheme of our design journey, building and exploring represent only half the equation. The other half involves sharing our insights, experiences, and lessons learned with others. By engaging in this exchange of ideas, we not only enrich our own understanding but also contribute to the collective growth of our community.
So, as we navigate the twists and turns of our design journey, let us remember to focus on our brand, cultivate meaningful connections, and share our work authentically. Let us embrace imperfection as a catalyst for growth and innovation. And above all, let us continue to create, share, and inspire others along the way.
This blog is a testament to that journey—a space where I share my flawed thoughts and visions with all of you. I hope you enjoy the journey!
João Borges
Mar 26, 2024