When people think of valuable traits a designer should have, one that comes up a lot is creativity. While yes, it certainly doesn't hurt to be able to think outside the box every now and again, but creativity comes with one fatal weakness: it's inconsistent. People often describe creativity as this illusive entity, a feeling that comes and goes like a divination from some unknown god. This idea to me, seems too reliant on chance. When I design, I prefer testing and iteration above all else, repeated ad-nauseum. Many of the worlds greatest inventions have come to be not from one instance of flowing creativity, but rather thousands upon thousands of iterations for one idea. Consistent design creates excellent experiences and outcomes, regardless of outside factors.

The people that I work with are just as much important as the user we put our focus in. At the start of every project, I try to remind myself that everyone I'm working with is human too. Much like myself, they are bound to make mistakes, get emotional, and act irrationally. Recognizing these faults that everyone possesses makes for a design environment that is built on understanding and mutual respect, rather than one that is built off of fear and contempt. This simple, yet important acknowledgement in essential to any design endeavor.

When I make things I like to have fun with it, plain and simple. Whether it be some meme, some obviously insane idea, or some random joke, it helps me get to the next step of the project. While nonsensical, "dumb" ideas can often stem into something more realistic and help everyone start thinking in ways they haven't considered before. Also, it makes my job all the more enjoyable!