Qualifying Your Design Choices

The field of design is often riddled with subjectivity, leading to uncertainty about our roles and decisions. Many designers, including myself, rely on intuition to guide our creative choices. While experience can sharpen our instincts, this reliance on intuition can also appear subjective to others, especially when we feel insecure about our authority.

To counteract this, designers should adopt a more objective approach in their communication. The UX community emphasizes the importance of making decisions backed by both qualitative and quantitative data, as these provide a sense of impartiality. When data isn't available, articulating design choices based on fundamental principles can lend credibility to our decisions.

Utilizing precise terminology enhances respect and boosts confidence, as it shows that our choices are grounded in logic. According to Tom Greever’s "Articulating Design Decisions," effective communication with stakeholders is crucial. One recommended technique is to replace subjective language, such as "I like," with objective phrases like "this works."

For instance, if a stakeholder expresses dislike for a button's placement, we can shift the conversation to discuss what about the position doesn’t "work" for them. This change in dialogue fosters a more rational discussion and leads to more confident design decisions—helping to alleviate feelings of imposter syndrome.

Writing as a Tool for Confidence

Strong writing skills are essential for designers, although many may not realize this when starting their careers. As we progress, tasks such as drafting emails, creative briefs, and project proposals become commonplace. Mastering persuasive and assertive writing can help us convey confidence in our abilities.

One effective strategy to combat imposter syndrome is to document our experiences as designers. Initially, I hesitated to share my insights, fearing judgment from peers. However, I soon discovered that sharing my journey not only adds value to the design community but also helps me find my authentic voice.

Writing about our unique experiences reveals that many designers share similar challenges, fears, and insecurities. If you ever feel isolated in your struggles, remember that you are not alone. It’s also worth noting that many designers do not consider themselves writers, which can serve as a convenient excuse when facing insecurities about our writing skills.

Recognizing Shared Experiences

In my youth, I often felt out of place. It wasn't until I took the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) test in my twenties that I learned I was an INTJ, a rare personality type. This revelation brought comfort, knowing there are others who think and perceive the world in similar ways.

Imposter syndrome can make us feel isolated in our self-doubt, but studies show that around 70% of people experience these feelings at some point. It’s a relief to realize that many others share this struggle, creating a unique connection based on our mutual uncertainties.

While some individuals genuinely lack the competence to match their positions, it’s important to remember that these overconfident individuals can distort our self-perception. Business cultures often reward extroverted personalities, leading us to compare ourselves to an illusion rather than true competence.

Conclusion: Embracing Self-Worth

Imposter syndrome can be associated with a range of negative emotions, including self-doubt and rejection. Those affected often find themselves striving to prove their worthiness, which can lead to a never-ending cycle of self-improvement. While pursuing goals is valuable, it shouldn't be done solely to silence our inner critics.

By shifting our perspectives and honing communication skills, we can cultivate a greater appreciation for our qualifications and achievements. Embracing these strategies can lead to increased self-awareness and a more profound sense of belonging in the design community.

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