My Life Lessons After 14 Years in UI/UX Design
Every aspiring UI/UX designer asks the question: "Where do I start?" I was no different. Today, I have over 14 years of experience in design, but like everyone else, I began somewhere.
My journey into design started with a passion for 3D and graphic design. It was a hobby that consumed my evenings after university, experimenting with pixels until it was time for bed. Little did I know, this would be the foundation of my career.
The Turning Point
What began as a hobby turned into my first opportunity. I started redesigning websites I frequently visited and sharing them on forums. The upvotes and positive feedback encouraged me to pursue freelance work. I still remember my first paid project: redesigning a simple header section. It was small, but it was a turning point. Since then, I've completed hundreds of projects, each adding to the lessons I’ve learned along the way.
1. Master a Design Tool
One of the first steps for any aspiring designer is mastering a design tool. Whether it’s Figma, Sketch, becoming highly proficient in one tool is key. For me, it began with Photoshop, then Sketch, and now Figma for the last five years. Whichever tool you choose, learn to use it efficiently — mastering essential shortcuts and speeding up your workflow is invaluable. Mastery over your tool allows you to focus more on creativity and design rather than figuring out the software.
2. Follow Industry Leaders
My second piece of advice is to follow the best designers in your industry. There are platforms like Dribbble, Behance, Awwwards, and Pinterest where top-tier designers and studios showcase their work. But don’t just admire — analyze. Look at the spacing between objects, the use of colors and fonts, how icons are integrated, and how the layout is constructed.
These platforms can also become a place where you share your work and build a reputation over time. When you're ready, show the world what you’ve been working on.
3. Copy to Learn Faster
One of the most effective ways to learn is by copying. While that may sound counterintuitive, copying isn't about cheating. It’s about training your hands and eyes to understand good design practices. This process helps to internalize design principles and improves your skills. As Picasso said, “Good artists copy; great artists steal.” Once you’ve copied enough, you’ll start to develop your own style and voice in design.
4. Don’t Forget UX
It’s easy to get caught up in the visual side of things, especially with the flashy, eye-catching designs that get the most likes. But UX is just as crucial. If you want to build a successful career, understand your users and how to improve their experiences.
Some essential books on UX that helped me along the way include:
The Design of Everyday Things by Don Norman
Don’t Make Me Think by Steve Krug
Hooked by Nir Eyal
These books changed how I approached design, emphasizing the importance of usability over aesthetics.
5. Share Your Work Without Fear
Sharing your work can be nerve-wracking, especially when criticism is involved. But feedback, even when harsh, is your friend. It’s easy to shy away from criticism, but the only way to grow is to be open to it. Share your work online, on platforms like Upwork or Behance, and don’t be afraid of what others might say. The more you share, the more visibility you’ll gain, and soon enough, work will start to come your way.
6. Custom Cover Letters Make a Difference
One of my key work lessons is to never copy-paste cover letters when applying for jobs. I’ve tested this approach: 50 generic cover letters versus 50 customized ones. The result? I got more than twice as many interview invitations with personalized applications. Take the time to read job descriptions and tailor your application to each role. It shows genuine interest and effort, which employers appreciate.
Final Thoughts
I hope these lessons resonate with those starting their design journey. Master your tools, learn from the best, don’t shy away from UX, and always be open to feedback. Every step you take gets you closer to mastering the art of UI/UX design. Stay curious and keep learning!