3–2–1 Design · Issue 74
Design Under Pressure
A good idea can feel like progress.
But sometimes it’s just a comfortable distraction.
This week is about staying close to the work that matters.
But sometimes it’s just a comfortable distraction.
This week is about staying close to the work that matters.
3 Thoughts From Me
I.
On the danger of a good idea
Good ideas are easy to chase.
The hard part is knowing when they’ve pulled you off track.
Sometimes the right move is not to add more, but to return to what you started.
II.
On doing your best work
You won’t do your best work by trying to impress.
You’ll do it when you’re calm, present, and slightly underwhelmed.
Not coasting. Just steady.
III.
On clarity
Clarity often comes after commitment, not before.
You don’t need a master plan to begin.
You just need to start small, and keep paying attention.
2 Quotes From Others
I.
On creativity
“Sometimes you have to play a long time to be able to play like yourself.”
(Interview, 1982)
It took me years to realise that refinement isn’t a shortcut, it’s a direction.
II.
On urgency
“If you want to do something, do it now. If you wait, you might not get another chance.”
(Interview, 2003)
This one still gets me off the fence.
1 Question For You
What are you putting off that could actually be easy to begin?
With thanks,
David
David
P.S. Don’t wait for it to feel perfect. Just wait for it to feel honest.
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Thank you for reading.
— Dm
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