A new year is starting and some of us are already running like rodents in a wheel. If you did not take the time already i really encourage you to “stop & reflect” for a while before you get caught up in the merry-go-round of the year…
Every year since 2014, i take a whole weekend alone in order to reflect and i can tell you that there is plenty of benefits, i will write an article about this during the year, but today i would like to focus on our job as UX/UI designer and why it is important for us to take the time to reflect.
At this period of the year, many of us take the time to set new goals for the year to come. While some may view New Year's resolutions as cliche or unrealistic, they can actually be a powerful tool for personal and professional growth, especially for UX/UI designers.
Personally i can see 5 benefits of having this “reflection time”
#1 - Sense of accomplishment
One of the great benefit of New Year's resolutions is that they provide a sense of accomplishment. I like to take the time to review what has been accomplished in my work area. From clients feedback to manager feedback. This is a great time that will help you to increase motivation.
For me, reflecting on past accomplishments can help you feel a sense of pride, which can increase motivation to continue working and developing your skills. This will also improved your self awareness gaining a better understanding of your strenghts and weaknesses.
#2 - Self improvement
Another benefits for me is the fact that it allows me to focus on self-improvement. As UX designers, we are and we need to constantly learning and evolving, and setting resolutions gives us the opportunity to identify areas where we want to improve and take action to make it happen. For example, if you want to improve your skills in user research, you can set a resolution to attend a workshop or take a course on the subject.
You can find good courses at ideo, interaction design foundation for example. Contact me if you need more information.
#3 - Creativity
Additionally, setting resolutions can also be a great way to inspire creativity and innovation. As UX designers, we often get caught up in the day-to-day tasks of our job, and setting resolutions can help us to step back and think about the bigger picture.
For example, if your resolution is to improve your skills in data visualization, you may come up with new and creative ways to present data to users. You can also create card for developing creativity, the idea is to “challenge yourself” and see things differently. Developing your creativity should be your main focus.
#4 - Stay engaged
Setting resolutions can also be a great way to stay motivated and engaged in our work. When we have something to work towards, it can give us a sense of purpose and drive, which can be especially important in our field.
I personally like to take the time to review my list of clients for example in order to see what could we do next. I would also review my process at work and see if i can adapt some elements in order to be more connected to my other colleagues.
#5 - Reload
Finally, it's important to take some time to reload. UX design can be demanding and stressful at times, so it's important to take a break, relax, and come back refreshed and ready to tackle new challenges. Now if your situation is currently challenging and you can not have a real break (more than 3 days alone) maybe try to set up new rules for this year.
In my case, i have decided to go for a 10 minutes walk at least two times during the day in order to refuel my energy. what will be yours ?
Conclusion
As you can see, setting New Year's resolutions can be a powerful tool for personal and professional growth for UX designers. I really encourage you to reflect and think about this for a while.
So, what will you do this year to prepare this new year ? please feel free to share and comments your thoughts. What is your favorite ? which one will you apply... and when ?
Have a great week.
JP