Design can be a stressful occupation. That’s why it’s important to keep a clear head and be mindful whenever possible. And that goes for every job, not just those that involve staring at a screen all day. We’ve compiled this list of 5 times when designers should do their best to take a chill pill. Try and think of every obstacle as merely a milestone along the path to design success.
1. When The Printer Breaks
Printers seem to have a sixth sense for knowing when a big design presentation is about to happen (see above). At the eleventh hour, they always seem to go on the fritz. When that all-too-familiar ´PAPER JAM’ message appears, it’s the perfect occasion to take a deep breath and chill. Take a zen approach to it all, and tell yourself “It’s all part of the processâ€.
2. When The Freelance Work Slows
Anyone who’s given up the world of full-time design to go it alone knows the stress that comes from work drying up. But at these times, it’s important to remember why you got into the freelance game in the first place. Work will always come in peaks and troughs. So be sure to chill out and enjoy the peace and quiet that you were never allowed to have when you worked for a boss.
3. Before That Big Presentation
Any designer knows that the idea is only one half of any good design solution. The other half involves selling that idea to your client. And it can be a nerve-wracking situation. But it helps to know that every presenter, no matter how seasoned, experiences some nerves. It might also benefit you to treat the occasion like you’re talking to a friend or a family member, rather than a client. This will help you relax and be a little looser.
4. When Ideas Won’t Flow
Despite the name, writer’s block happens to designers too. Sometimes, no matter what approach you take or how you look at a problem, a solution doesn’t present itself. When this happens, try and remember to take stock and go for a walk to clear your head. Ideas are like water, they come in waves. It’s not possible to force an idea to happen any more than it is possible to force water uphill.
5. When Your Computer Crashes
A good designer doesn’t just have solid talent. He or she has established a reliable workflow. And that means making sure that work is regularly backed up either to the cloud or to your local machine. Ideally both. That way, when crashes happen (not if), you can keep a clear, calm head and simply revert to your last saved state.
Over to you
So there you have it. Five occasions when any good designer should take the opportunity to chill out rather than freak out. How about you? Which design situations do you find the most stressful? And how do you handle it? Let us know your tips in the comments.
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