10 things I believe (so far)

I recently followed up some interviews and discussions with a thank you piece. The piece had imagery on one side, 10 things I’ve learned so far on the other side. Like a majority of thoughts and ideas, the list was inspired, scraped and mashed up. Here they are - giving credit where credit is due.

1. FORM AND FUNCTION
The two can live in harmony, the trick is to realize that pure function can be in beautiful form - like a txt msg.

2. INTERACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS
You can talk all you want about something. But, just like show and tell, its only when you pass it around for others to see that it becomes more than a production.

3. BE AFRAID
“Fear is the beginning of all wisdom”. Always be afraid that you don’t know what you’re doing - have the confidence that you do. And pursue a healthy balance.
adapted from The Bible

4. YOU CAN’T POLISH A SNEAKER
Don’t try to sell a hollow idea as something more. Start with something solid, something that’ll look good polished.
adapted from Swanon’s unwritten rules

5. BEAUTIFUL SIMPLICITY
Designing and writing simple is difficult. Understanding this challenge is what makes concise so beautiful.

6. IF EVERYTHING IS IMPORTANT, NOTHING IS
A clear hirarchy and focus of information is a core principle in design. This is true in all areas of communication.

7. RETURN ON INVOLVEMENT
Some believe meetings are a waste of time - a lot of times they are. Although, including the people who will be involved is well worth the investment.
adapted from Interaction Associates

8. THE BEST IDEA IS BOSS
Ideas should be judged soley on their own merit. An amazing idea can come from anyone. Empower this by letting go of ego and title - its the best way to make the “boss” happy.
from CP+B’s handbook

9. DESIGN IN 3s
This simple approach works well in aesthetics and communication. It hardly ever fails.

10. STAY FRESH
Read and learn. Experiment and explore. Never quit pursuing your passion and trade.

link to pdf