Working as a graphic designer over the years I have developed some strategies that have helped me grow. These are some helpful tips that have helped me become a better designer.
Keeping an open mind allows me as a designer to observe and learn from others. If you are experienced or a beginner, you can always learn something new and that never changes. I have observed many types of workflows, different ways to be efficient. All of this observation and this mindset has allowed me to grow my task management skills as well as pickup new skills. Sometimes I try something new, and I am pleasantly surprised. It allows me to reflect and slow down and focus on getting better at what I love to do.
It is easy to get carried away with work and keep a routine. Especially when you are working in a fast-paced environment with many deadlines. What has helped me become a more efficient designer is learning new techniques and features of the tools I use while I work.
For example, I have used Adobe Illustrator for years and I am constantly learning new tricks and shortcuts. One rule I have given myself is learning one new button or feature during the day. It has helped expand my knowledge of Illustrator as well as increase my speed.
I personally love learning new things. It peaks my curiosity and I can’t help but dive into something new. As humans we are curious innovators. I try and learn new tools and stretch other creative muscles. Occasionally discover creative skills that I did not know I had. Sometimes it is hard to find new things to learn, or even know where to start looking. For me I try and find a creative skill that I have never tried before. I have found that those journeys have been the most rewarding and surprising. Sometimes you can even use those new skills later for a project.
Learning new tools allows myself to develop a large creative background that allows me to understand many different creative process. It helps with solving problems or figuring out the best way to execute a project. Currently I am learning Blender in my free time. Blender is a free 3D Animation software.