My 2023 annual review
Reflecting over a challenging 2023 and setting goals for 2024
As the first rays of 2024 touched the world, I found myself enveloped in a state of deep reflection. The transition from one year to the next, though a simple tick of the clock, always carries a weight of significance.
For those of us in the realm of design, it’s not just a matter of flipping a calendar page; it’s an opportunity to pause, reflect, and recalibrate our creative compasses.
The unexpected turn
2023 started on a high note for me. Fresh off the successful completion of two significant projects, I was riding a wave of professional satisfaction. Yet, as is often the case, life had its own script. In a twist that would rival any cinematic plot, I found myself jobless, the news hitting me as I stood amidst the ancient stones of Edinburgh Castle. This moment, though initially a sharp sting, soon unfolded as the prelude to a year of unexpected growth and discovery.
A journey of exploration
The months that followed saw me traversing the globe – from the cobblestone streets of Europe to the bustling markets of Asia. Accompanied by my wife and our ever-adventurous dog, these travels transcended mere tourism. They were a journey into the heart of diverse cultures, each with its unique design ethos. I saw firsthand how design transcends language and borders, an omnipresent force shaping our interactions and experiences.
Mindfulness in moments
Amidst these wanderings, I discovered the art of mindfulness. In the simple act of journaling against the backdrop of the Italian Alps, I found a profound peace in the mundane. This practice of mindfulness seeped into my design philosophy, teaching me to cherish the present moment and find inspiration in the most unassuming details.
Language: A window to new worlds
My year in Nürnberg, a quaint German city, challenged me in unexpected ways. English was no longer the lingua franca, and learning German became a necessity. But it turned into something more – a bridge to new perspectives and ideas. Every language class and every struggle with complex grammar broadened my understanding of communication, an essential skill in design.
Feeding the mind, nurturing creativity
My intellectual pursuits – podcasts, insightful books, and captivating documentaries – became food for thought. They expanded my horizons and deepened my understanding of the global tapestry that influences design. One episode of Crucible Moments that I found absorbing was the story of how PayPal, a leader today, almost didn’t make it.
My 5 favorites:
Podcast: Crucible Moments
Podcast: Culture by Design
Book: The Culture Map
Book: Tuesdays with Morrie
Show: Losers
Professional growth amidst personal change
Despite the whirlwind of personal changes, my connection to design never wavered. Revamping my portfolio, a task long overdue, became a reflective and cathartic process. It wasn’t just about showcasing projects; it was about narrating a journey of growth and evolution. My engagements as a guest instructor and design advisor kept the flames of my passion for design and education burning brightly.
Embracing a new challenge
As the year drew to a close, I faced a pivotal decision in my career. After much contemplation, I chose to join Trade Republic, driven by a desire to delve into the fintech sector. It was a leap into somewhat unknown waters, but one that promised growth and new learning.
Goals for 2024:
As I look towards 2024, I do so with a heart full of hope and a mind brimming with ideas. My experiences in 2023 have laid the foundation for what I aim to achieve this year.
Writing and Sharing: Committing to daily writing and fortnightly publishing, I aim to share my journey, offering insights and learnings to the broader design community.
Holistic Health: Recognizing the integral role of physical and mental well-being, I pledge to maintain a balanced lifestyle – essential for sustaining creativity and energy.
Nurturing Relationships: I plan to deepen personal connections, understanding that the roots of great design lie in genuine human interactions.
Elevating My Voice: Speaking at a design conference and running workshops is on my horizon, a step towards sharing my experiences and learning from the vibrant design community.
Seneca once said, “We suffer more in imagination than in reality.” 2023 was a testament to the beauty that lies in embracing the unknown, a year where challenges morphed into opportunities for growth.
Here’s to a year of exploring new frontiers, both in design and in life. Let’s go!