A Designer's Uncertain Path to Success


A Designer's Uncertain Path to Success

By Hannah Baker


Dear Reader,

Navigating uncertainty is where great designers live.

We have loads of data, insights, and experience to work with while trying to figure out the right solution to make our company all the money in the world and skyrocket our careers.

Aren't those our only goals these days 🙃?

We have pressure from our CEOs, managers, COUGH, and ourselves to get everything right.

The anxiety of uncertainty is palpable, pushing us to strive for perfection.

However, the journey towards not just surviving but thriving in this ambiguous space is where true innovation happens. It involves asking probing questions, exploring the unknown, and realizing that solutions are often nuanced and varied.

Deciphering the right path is complex, but as we grow more comfortable in uncertainty, we gain the confidence to adapt and alter course when necessary.

Great leaders exemplify this trait—they don't hastily provide answers.

​

Instead, they take the time to listen, question, and gather information, making informed decisions.

Yet, the significance of comfort with uncertainty goes beyond informed decision-making. It showcases to our teams and peers that we are adept at handling the unknown, demonstrating fearlessness in the face of ambiguity.

Comfort in the unknown also breeds detachment—a vital quality that fosters flexibility and swift adaptation to ever-changing landscapes. It allows us to be role models during turbulent times, maintaining composure and serving as a pillar of strength for our teams.

However, embracing the unknown doesn't imply stagnation.

It's about remaining unfazed and actively seeking more information. This mindset cultivates a continuous learning culture that benefits both individuals and teams.

Imagine a brainstorming session where innovation is the lifeline in a competitive market. A leader comfortable with ambiguity encourages the team to venture into uncharted territories, creating an environment where novel concepts are tested without the fear of failure.

The acceptance of ambiguity sparks groundbreaking ideas, catalyzing creativity.

Leaders comfortable with ambiguity instill a culture of autonomy and self-efficacy, unlocking team potential for agility and inventive solutions.

Let's embrace the unknown, for the keys to innovation, resilience, and a flourishing career lie within its depths.

Ready to grow not just as a designer but as a leader?

Then check out the masterclass below for valuable insights and actionable strategies on embracing uncertainty and other leadership skills. Let's embark on this journey together.

​

​


COURSE: Facilitating Workshops
​
Next course: Spring 2025​
​
Master practical techniques to lead effective, problem-solving workshops.​
​
Join the waitlist​


COURSE: Defining UX Strategy
​
Next live course: Spring 2025​
​
Learn to design a winning strategy that aligns design with business​
​
Buy a self-paced seat​

​

​

​

​

​

Until next week!

Hannah Baker
​
Facilitator & Co-Founder
​
The Fountain Institute

​

​

The Fountain Institute

The Fountain Institute is an independent online school that teaches advanced UX & product skills.

Read more from The Fountain Institute

Big Updates and New Initiatives at the Guild of Working Designers By Hannah Baker Dear Reader, It’s been a transformative year for the Guild of Working Designers. We set out with a vision: to shape a community that’s driven by its members and creates real value for working designers. From co-creating our purpose and values with the community to building a core team, we’ve come a long way—and we’re only getting started! Here’s a quick look at everything that’s led us to this point, along with...

design halloween costumes

The Halloween Meme Special 🎃 by Jeff Humble Dear Reader, This year, I went a little crazy with the Spirit of Halloween designer memes. I could only find three on Google, so I made nine new ones for you. 🤓 Now, you have no excuse for showing up to work without a costume. I'm sure you can steal anything you need to make these costumes from the office supplies closet. 🫢 1. UX Designer by Jeff Humble Making this one was too easy. How are there so many clichés in the UX world? 2. Service Designer...

Canvas '24 Product talk

How Miro’s New Features Help Designers Move from Ideas to Action By Hannah Baker Dear Reader, If you’re a regular, you know the drill: every year, the biggest players reveal their latest tricks and tools, aiming to change the way we work. This time, it was Miro’s turn with Canvas '24, rolling out the Innovation Workspace with many new features that promise to take our workshops, meetings, and design sessions to new heights. You might be a die-hard FigJam fan, but for those like me who live...